Fruit Category Manager

Recruiter:

Carlysle Human Capital

Job Ref:

DBN000926/AD

Date posted:

Thursday, September 3, 2026

Location:

Cape Town, South Africa

Salary:

Monthly

SUMMARY:

We are seeking an experienced, commercial Category Manager for Fruit. Requires a strong background in fresh fruit procurement, category management, and/or international fruit trading. The successful candidate will have proven expertise in sourcing, supply chain management, supplier negotiations, and driving profitability within the fresh produce industry.

This role is best suited to someone who has hands-on experience trading fresh fruit internationally, understands the commercial risks associated with perishable products, and can balance supplier relationships, procurement, sales performance, quality, and profitability across multiple regions.

POSITION INFO:

Essential Experience:

3–5+ years' experience in Category Management, Procurement, Commercial Management, or International Trading within fresh fruit or fresh produce.
Strong understanding of international fruit sourcing, import/export processes, and perishable supply chains.
Experience negotiating with local and international growers, exporters, and suppliers.
Proven ability to manage seasonal procurement, pricing strategies, and inventory planning.
Strong commercial acumen with responsibility for P&L, margins, and category performance.
Experience managing supplier claims, quality issues, and product recoveries.
Ability to analyse market trends, pricing, and competitor activity to drive business growth.
Experience leading or supporting regional sales teams across multiple countries would be advantageous.

Technical Knowledge:

Fresh fruit supply chains and cold chain logistics.
Import/export documentation and regulatory requirements.
Procurement and inventory management systems.
Pricing, forecasting, and demand planning.
Quality assurance and claims management.

Key Competencies:

Commercially driven with strong negotiation skills.
Excellent analytical and financial acumen.
Strong leadership and stakeholder management abilities.
Ability to build long-term supplier relationships.
Highly organised with exceptional attention to detail.
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, international trading environment.
People management

Qualifications and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Agriculture, or a related field.
3–5 years of experience in category management, procurement, sales management, or a similar role (preferably in fresh produce).
-Experience managing cross-regional teams is advantageous.
Knowledge of import/export regulations and perishable goods handling.

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