Tesco has streamlined its category management structure by creating a new position, FPJ can reveal.
The retailer is in the final stages of a two-year project to flatten its structure and unveil a new job title - category buying manager.
The role of category manager at level four - the same level as category directors - has been removed and replaced by the new position. These managers will sit above senior buying managers within level three and report into category directors, who in turn report into commercial directors. There are currently 19 category managers.
A Tesco spokesperson said the new job title enabled “simplicity” and “does not reflect any changes to our structures, roles or responsibilities”.
One source expressed fears that a flatter structure could create an “experience drain” as people are fast-tracked too quickly. But he added: “They are going back to their old structure to some extent. It makes sense in removing the glass ceiling and means there are fewer layers of management to make sure the category directors’ message gets through to those at the coal face. It will be beneficial in getting clear messages to the supply base.”
Another source said: “Clearly [the category managers] are not impressed. Some will be given a promise to do bigger and better things. The salaries and benefits won’t change but the packages for the two positions will get closer together and seniority lost.”
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