Category Manager - U.S. AutoForce

Position: Category Manager I - U.S. AutoForce
Category Manager I - U.S. Auto Force page is loaded## Category Manager I - U.S. Auto Forcelocations:
WI - Appleton time type:
Full time posted on:
Posted Todayjob requisition :
R6154##
** POSITION SUMMARY
** The Category Manager I is responsible for overall vendor program and product management to increase sales and profitability while driving sustainable growth. This role will manage a group of brands or multiple categories of products for U.S. Auto Force and must have full comprehension of inventory, pricing, promotion, product placement/segmentation and sales principles. A background in financial metrics/measurement and inventory management is a bonus.
The Category Manager I will coordinate the division’s product mix at the direction of direct supervisor to achieve assigned Gross Margin ROI (GMROI), targeted inventory turns and fill-rates on assigned product lines. Additional  responsibilities include managing product, supplier promotions, marketing activities of assigned products and vendor programs.
This position is located in Appleton, WI.##
** JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
*** Devise long term strategies for brands and categories growth
* Create new product launch strategy, stock model and promotional activities
* Build strong trusting relationships with suppliers
* Manage brand related: product, pricing, promotions, co-op, and rebate programs
* Negotiate and manage all supplier rebate programs to maximize growth and profitability
* Manage all special purchase opportunities – qualify and quantify benefits
* Analyze and lead all large quarterly and annual buys, quantify financial impacts
* Create promotions to grow branded sales
* Maintain supplier scorecard and monthly data metrics
* Forecast inventory to meet customer demand
* Work in a team environment to collectively grow
* Lead inventory management data collaboration process with suppliers
* Authorize positioning of a product/category to maximize visibility and profitability
* Acquire & Analyze industry data, make adjustments to remain current with industry and consumer trends
* Approve sustainable inventory levels with inventory control team
* Counsel pricing on selling price in a manner that allows for maximum gross profit
* Approve and track annual marketing and co-op plans
* Execute promotional activities with Marketing Managers
* Develop strong working relationships with Sales, Program Managers, Customer Service, Finance and Operations
* Facilitate E-Commerce parts activities with parts GM
* Provide finance guidance on rebate and volume bonus program management tracking
* Facilitate internet product marketing
* Manage associate dealer programs and data flow with Brand Managers
* Approve and develop new part numbers to the inventory model
* Develop exit strategy for unsuccessful or discontinued product
* Participate in Trade show planning and implementation
* Consult Inbound Logistics on supplier shipments and logistics opportunities
* Ensure accurate pricing and perform purchase price variance corrective action
* Perform other related duties as required and assigned
* Live our values of High Performance, Caring Relationships, Strategic Foresight, and Entrepreneurial Spirit
* * Find A Better Way
* by championing continuous improvement and quality control efforts to identify opportunities to innovate and improve efficiency, accuracy, and standardization
* Continuously learn and develop self professionally
* Support corporate efforts for safety, government compliance, and all other company policies & procedures##
** QUALIFICATIONS
* ** Bachelors Degree in Business, a related field, or the equivalent experience
* 3-5 years experience in product management or purchasing in a related industry
* Excellent analytical, problem solving, process improvement, communication, and organizational abilities
* Able to deal with a variety of people and situations in a positive, open-minded, and results oriented manner
* Detail, results, and team oriented as well as professional under stress
* Ability to think strategically and translate a vision into a solid measurable marketing/sales program
* Strong analytical skills including a good understanding of the budgeting process, cost control, price and…