Category Manager

Key Responsibilities

• Category Strategy & Planning:
• Develop and implement category strategies aligned with overall business objectives.
• Analyze market trends, customer behavior, and competitive insights to support data-driven decision-making.
• Identify growth opportunities through new product introductions and optimization of existing assortments.
• Buying & Vendor Management:
• In cases requiring deeper involvement, participate in vendor negotiations and factory interactions.
• Work closely with suppliers to optimize costs, terms, and product availability.
• Ensure supplier relationships align with quality, compliance, and ethical sourcing standards.
• Merchandising & Inventory Management:
• Oversee the merchandising team to ensure effective product placement, visual merchandising, and stock rotation.
• Manage stock levels, demand planning, and replenishment strategies to reduce stock-outs and overstocking.
• Coordinate with supply chain and logistics teams for timely product availability.
• Sales & Performance Analysis:
• Track category performance using key metrics such as sales, margins, stock turns, and profitability.
• Generate reports and insights to optimize category performance.
• Adjust pricing, promotions, and assortment strategies based on sales performance and market feedback.
• Team Leadership & Coordination:
• Lead a team of merchandisers, ensuring alignment with category goals.
• Provide training and development to enhance team capabilities in merchandising and buying functions.
• Work cross-functionally with marketing, operations, and finance to drive category success.

Desired Experience

• 6-8 years of experience in category management, buying, or merchandising within the retail industry.
• Strong skills in assortment planning, vendor management, and inventory control.
• Proven ability to analyze data and drive category performance.
• Experience in leading cross-functional collaboration across supply chain, marketing, and operations.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Retail, or a related field