Job DescriptionJob Summary:
Strategic, data-driven, and collaborative
Category Manager owns the development and execution of category strategies that drive business growth through optimized supplier partnerships and enhanced customer satisfaction. This role requires a foundation in category strategy creation and execution, financial acumen, supplier negotiation, and cross-functional leadership.
Key Responsibilities:
Category Management
- Assesses category lifecycle stages and aligns strategies accordingly.
- Identifies categories requiring resource reallocation and strategic focus.
- Collaborates with research teams to integrate insights into category planning.
- Leverages competitive pricing strategies in the market, including retail, promotional, and professional pricing strategies.
- Resolves conflicts that impact category strategy execution.
- Distinguishes product types that perform best within specific categories.
- Coaches team members on category planning to improve business outcomes.
Business Acumen - Financial Management
- Analyzes and forecasts short- and long-term financial needs for assigned categories.
- Evaluates business and investment decisions for financial impact.
- Recommends improvements to financial tools and processes.
- Interprets financial statements to assess risks and opportunities.
- Applies financial metrics to support strategic decision-making.
- Mentors others in developing financial literacy and responsibility.
Supplier Management & Negotiation
- Defines supplier value targets and selects appropriate suppliers for strategic sourcing.
- Prepares and prioritizes negotiation points using data from multiple sources.
- Leads negotiations across product categories, applying BATNA principles.
- Anticipates and counters supplier arguments effectively.
- Evaluates supplier performance data to inform future negotiations and sourcing decisions.
Visionary Thinking - Strategic Execution
- Assists in the creation of implementation plans for the vision
- Applies information from the business and industry to formulate potential
product category strategies
- Analyzes customer base for a given product category and determines potential changes and shifts that impact the overall Company
- Integrates the strategic vision into a given product category through execution of day-to-day operational goals
Communication
- Communicates complex and sensitive topics with clarity and diplomacy.
- Fosters open dialogue and encourages idea sharing across teams.
- Provides coaching on effective communication techniques and tools.
- Actively listens to understand before responding and adapt communication styles as needed.
Cross-Functional Leadership
- Identifies the steps in the team formation process (e.g., forming, storming, norming, performing).
- Recognizes and communicates barriers to effective teamwork.
- Identifies and resolves conflicts (interpersonal) to effective teamwork by giving and seeking feedback.
- Takes initiative and provides leadership for the team even if not officially designated "leader".
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, Finance, or related field.
- 8+ years of experience in category management, strategic sourcing, or procurement.
- Strong analytical and financial modeling skills.
- Proven experience in supplier negotiations and performance management.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and coaching abilities.
- Proficiency in category management tools, ERP systems, and data visualization platforms.
Location & Work Availability:
This position is 4 days in office, 1 day remote per week, based at our corporate headquarters in Raleigh, North Carolina (North Hills)
Benefits Summary:
We believe in supporting our Team Members and those they love through comprehensive health & wellness benefits. Learn more here: https://jobs.advanceautoparts.com/us/en/benefits
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