Job Title: Category ManagerReports Directly to: Director of Category ManagementJob Summary: The Category Manager is responsible for managing and driving the performance of specific product categories within the organization.Product categories include Handbags & Mens / Unisex bags, Mens & Ladies Belts & Wallets, Umbrellas, Headwear & Cold Weather, Socks, Kids Accessories, Cosmetic Bags & Shave kits, Travel Accessories, Novelty GiftKey Responsibilities:Strategic Planning, Product Selection & PricingImplement category strategies to meet customer objectives based on market trends, consumer behavior, and competitor analysis.Manage pricing strategies to remain competitive and maximize profitability.Determine and manage the product assortment for the category, ensuring it aligns with customer preferences while achieving profitability goals.Strategize, initiate and implement sales catalogues, sell sheets, in-store merchandising concepts, new packaging, pricing & profitability analysis as required by retailer for all sales presentationsNational brands: full responsibility for product samples, presentation strategy, pricing & inventory purchases as per forecasts provided by sales teamPrivate label programs (including ACI house brands): full responsibility for product samples, presentation strategy, pricing; providing purchasing support as needed and / or execute production orders as per forecasts provided by sales teamProvide product knowledge support at sales meetings including full product presentations to buyersConduct monthly store visits & maintain a current competitive market analysisWeekly POS review of key account programs identify where are the opportunities & action new product needs to the design team and / or put offers together utilizing existing stock for the sale teamPurchasing ManagementResponsible for issuing and managing production orders to the Purchasing teamFacilitate meetings or updates to keep informed of progress and challenges.Assist in resolving production issues, including discrepancies in quality or delays.Support the implementation of corrective actions when production or quality issues arise.Address production issues or delays and work to resolve them promptly.Communicate issues to relevant departments and help implement solutionsTroubleshoot logistical or scheduling challenges and work proactively to mitigate risks.Manage & negotiate FOB pricing for each category of business by working directly with factories when placing production where necessaryEnsure the sales team is kept fully advised of changes to any confirmed product and / or delays on any confirmed delivery datesEnsure sales team is provided with required buyer approval samples in a timely mannerEnsure all purchases are entered correctly on inventory reports by conducting inventory report checks in a timely manner after all purchase orders have been executedInventory & Stock ManagementWork with sales teams to manage stock levels, forecasting demand, and avoiding overstock, or stockouts.Maximizing sales by a continuous flow of sales opportunities clearly thought out for each retail channel utilizing all overstockKeep divisional inventory reports clean and organized.Collaboration & Team LeadershipWork closely with cross-functional teams such as product development, design, E.com, purchasing, and operations to implement presentations, execute product manufacturing and packaging needs, and online assets for all customers in all categoriesEducate the e.com team on product knowledge for online assets to be created and published to sales teams.Responsible for all showroom needs for seasonal and quarterly resets and for providing direction to group Administrative Assistant to ensure seasonal changes, customer meetings & regular maintenance are done in a timely mannerSupplier/ Vendor & Licensor ManagementBuild strong relationships with US partners through weekly communication: maximize brand sales growth with continuous new offers to the Canadian sales teamProvide & maintain detailed forecasts for licensors (where applicableMattel, Universal, Nickelodeon, etc.) on a quarterly basisProvide & maintain all pre-pro and production products & packaging approval by licensors (where applicable)Qualifications:Experience: 5 years of experience in product management, retail management, product management, or a related fieldPreferred Skills:Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Power Point, Adobe, and data analysis tools.Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to provide solutions; ability to leverage prior experience and adapt quickly to the changing work environment.Excellent negotiation skills with a proven ability to drive cost savingsHighly organized and detail oriented with the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environmentProactive self-starter who can work both independently and collaboratively in team settingsStrong communication and presentation skills with ability influence cross functional teams to help prioritize activities and resources to meet organizational needs.Strong understanding of the industry and consumer trends.Access to a vehicle is required.
Job Title
Category Manager