Job Summary:

Strategic, data-driven, and collaborativeCategory Managerownsthe development and execution of category strategies that drive business growththroughoptimizedsupplierpartnershipsand enhancedcustomer satisfaction. This role requires a foundation in categorystrategy creationand execution, financial acumen, supplier negotiation, and cross-functional leadership.

Key Responsibilities:

Category Management

• Assessescategory lifecycle stages and alignsstrategies accordingly.

• Identifiescategories requiring resource reallocation and strategic focus.

• Collaborateswith research teams to integrate insights into category planning.

• Leveragescompetitive pricingstrategiesin the market,including retail, promotional, and professional pricing strategies.

• Resolvesconflicts that impact category strategy execution.

• Distinguishesproduct types that perform best within specific categories.

• Coachesteam members on category planning to improve business outcomes.

Business Acumen 6 Financial Management

• Analyzesand forecastsshort- and long-term financial needs for assigned categories.

• Evaluatesbusiness and investment decisions for financial impact.

• Recommendsimprovements to financial tools and processes.

• Interpretsfinancial statements to assess risks and opportunities.

• Appliesfinancial metrics to support strategic decision-making.

• Mentorsothers in developing financial literacy and responsibility.

Supplier Management & Negotiation

• Definessupplier value targets and selectsappropriate suppliers for strategic sourcing.

• Preparesand prioritizesnegotiation points using data from multiple sources.

• Leadsnegotiations across product categories, applying BATNA principles.

• Anticipatesand counterssupplier arguments effectively.

• Evaluatessupplier performance data to inform future negotiations and sourcing decisions.

Visionary Thinking 6 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 determinespotential changes and shifts that impact the overall Company

• Integrates the strategic vision into a given product category throughexecution of day-to-day operational goals

Communication

• Communicatescomplex and sensitive topics with clarity and diplomacy.

• Fostersopen dialogue and encouragesidea sharing across teams.

• Providescoaching on effective communication techniques and tools.

• Actively listensto understand before responding and adapt communication styles as needed.

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Identifiesthestepsintheteamformationprocess(e.g.,forming,storming,norming,performing).

• Recognizesandcommunicatesbarriers toeffectiveteamwork.

• Identifies andresolvesconflicts(interpersonal) toeffectiveteamworkby giving and seeking feedback.

• Takes initiative and provides leadership for the team even if not officially designated "leader".

Qualifications:

• Bachelors 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.