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 thatimpactcategory 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 forfinancial 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 suppliersfor 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

• Assistsin 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 anddeterminespotential changes and shifts thatimpactthe 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 andadaptcommunication styles as needed.

Cross-Functional Leadership

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

• Recognizesandcommunicatesbarriers toeffectiveteamwork.

• Identifiesandresolvesconflicts(interpersonal) toeffectiveteamworkby giving and seeking feedback.

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

Qualifications:

• Bachelor27s 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.

• Proficiencyin category management tools, ERP systems, and data visualization platforms.

• Company Overview: 
  Advance Auto Parts, Inc. is a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider that serves both professional installers and do-it-yourself customers. Advance operates 4,500+ stores and distribution centers in the United States, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Company also serves independently owned CarQuest branded stores across these locations in addition to Mexico and various Caribbean Islands. When you join our team, you become one of 60,000 knowledgeable and experienced Team Members who are committed to providing outstanding customer service to our customers, communities, and each other every day.  
  
  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