Category Manager

Category Manager

Reporting To: VP of Merchandising
Direct Reports: No
Status: Full-Time
Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt
Division: Products and Supply Chain

Job Purpose:

A Category Manager develops the overall strategy for assigned product categories and research new product/supplier options to drive sales and achieve targets. Works with different teams to provide category insights and proposals by analyzing sales data and monitoring relevant market conditions. Works with suppliers to ensure optimal assortment and first to market products. Works closely with marketing and pricing teams to determine optimal pricing through analysis of sales trends, competitors, and buying habits to promote sales opportunities. Provides effective promotional materials.

Key Job Responsibilities:

• Develops a competitive product strategy in accordance with business goals.
• Advises management in selecting the appropriate suppliers for assigned categories.
• Negotiates terms, conditions, and allowances with Suppliers.
• Ensures the punctual delivery of all goods and services within category responsibilities.
• Works with Accounts Payable regarding the billing process in relation to categories.
• Develops account-specific plans for key customers.
• Works with the Inventory Analyst to ensure that product placement and replenishment plans are aligned with category expectations.
• Observes competing companies and adapts products to remain competitive in the market.
• Watches trends in buying and customers in order to offer in-demand products.
• Build key partnerships with Suppliers.
• Stay current on the industry and competition.
• Identify, develop, and drive new merchandise programs.
• Introduce new category lines.
• Manage and support Supplier incentives.
• Develops monthly sales plans using corporate goals and strategies.
• Drive department KPIs goals.
• Identify sales opportunities and develop action plans to maximize sales.
• Communicates with the Executive team to keep them up to date.
• Catalog oversite to ensure that categories/brands/Parts are displayed as expected.
• Coordinates with the marketing department in analyzing trends and adapting marketing strategies.
• Work with other departments to ensure success in promotional plans.
• Ensure pricing is competitive.
• Identify sales opportunities and develop action plans to maximize sales.
• Facilitates Sales and Operations team’s product lines training.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• 3 plus years in a Category Manager or Merchandising leadership role.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent leadership skills and proficiency to work in a team environment.
• Advance proficiency in Microsoft Office Products and computer literacy.
• Experience in Power BI or similar business intelligence software is preferred.

Benefits:

We offer a competitive compensation plan complete with attractive benefits offerings that include (not limited to) medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401k, paid time off and opportunities for advancement.

Environmental/Occupational Health and Physical Requirements:

Typical 9-hour day to include reaching, standing, walking, kneeling, lifting and carrying. To perform the duties of this job the employee must be capable of working in a fast-paced environment. The heavy lifting of 50lbs or more may be required. Employee also share the responsibility to perform routine housekeeping activities such as dusting, sweeping, mopping, restroom cleaning and changing trash can liners.

XL Parts and The Parts House (TPH) a Marubeni Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment is contingent upon a successful background check and drug screen that meets the Company’s guidelines for employment.

Experience

• 3 - 5 years: Category Manager or Merchandising leadership role or simillar

Education

• High School or better