Category Manager

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The Category Manager is responsible for procuring, developing, coordinating programs within assigned category areas to achieve corporate goals by maximizing sales, inventory, and gross margin dollars. The objectives will be met through focused merchandise assortments, effective marketing initiatives, strategic negotiations and disciplined merchandise management. Merchandise is purchased to maximize financial results while enhancing the overall divisions and company strategies.

• Paid vacation
• 401K and matching contributions
• Health, dental and vision insurance
• Short and long term disability insurance
• Life insurance
• A clearly defined path for growth
• On-demand pay with Pay Activ (access to earned but not yet paid wages)
• And much more!

• Evaluates, selects and procures products and services of acceptable quality and quantity.
• Negotiates and communicates optimal vendor programs and agreements.
• Utilizes inventory management systems to ensure accurate ordering and replenishment across all locations.
• Reviews and analyzes sales performance, gross profit contributions, inventory levels, and product movement within categories.
• Participates in floor plan design and merchandise placement for new and existing locations.
• Monitors inventory turns to maximize profitability
• Conducts annual assortment reviews aligned with company goals and customer expectations
• Maintains awareness of new products and programs through competitive store visits, vendor contacts, and industry publications.
• Partners with vendors to minimize cost and maximize margins in assigned categories.
• Manages new item introductions, discontinued products, distribution changes, promotional support, out-of-stock reduction, and credit/return processes.
• Develops and coordinates promotional programs, advertising initiatives, and point-of-sale materials with vendors, ensuring communication and execution at the store level.
• Analyzes promotional effectiveness and adjusts strategies accordingly.
• Conducts competitive market survey and recommends retail pricing adjustments based on findings.
• Develops and implements plan-o-grams (POGs) based on comprehensive category analysis.
• Collaborates cross-functionally to ensure effective execution of marketing programs.
• Executes sales, margin and inventory plans to achieve corporate objectives.
• Participates in weekly and/or monthly merchandising meetings, presenting reports, analysis, issues, and action items.
• Supports supply chain functions as required.
• Conducts monthly store visits to review planogram compliance and assortment integrity with District Managers and General Managers.
• Works at store level to implement store sets and gather important feedback.
• Provides guidance to Category Specialists regarding pricing, costing and vendor programs.
• Provides friendly and competent customer service.
• Reports for work in a timely manner when scheduled.

• Assists with other duties, as assigned.

• This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration or Marketing, or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant purchasing experience.
• Minimum of 4 years of purchasing and/or category management experience.

• Strong organizational skills with effective follow-up and execution.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities at both a strategic and operational levels.
• Knowledge of strategic planning and marketing.
• Ability to identify and evaluate industry trends.
• Professional presentation skills for vendors, customers and internal stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and be insurable to drive.
• Must be able to communicate in English.
  
  - IF APPLICABLE
• Able and willing to deliver friendly, courteous, and prompt customer service.
• Able and willing to work cooperatively with…