Category Manager

Posted Monday, January 5, 2026 at 6:00 AM

Established in 1919 and traded on the NYSE, Standard Motor Products, Inc. (SMP) is a leading independent manufacturer and distributor of premium automotive replacement parts utilized in the maintenance, repair, and service of vehicles in the automotive aftermarket. Additionally, SMP provides customized solutions for vehicle control and thermal management products in diversified end markets represented by its Engineered Solutions segment.

Globally, SMP employs over 6,000 employees across nearly 40 manufacturing, distribution, and engineering facilities and offices located in North America, Europe and Asia. SMP sells its products primarily to automotive aftermarket retailers, program distribution groups, warehouse distributors, original equipment manufacturers, and original equipment service part operations in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, Mexico, and other Latin American countries.

In this highly visible role, you will implement objective category management initiatives and lead the dialogue with retailers and our sales team regarding all aspects of category management utilizing a fact-based approach, converting insights into action, and effectively demonstrating to our customers our ability to manage categories objectively.

Responsibilities will include:

• performing analysis of customer/industry category performance
• providing qualitative/quantitative assessments to internal/external customers
• developing reports and preparing analysis for ad-hoc requests
• analyzing/forecasting sales by brand, item and market for local customers
• gathering and summarizing data, and incorporating feedback for improved initiatives
• creating and updating category reviews
• interacting with internal stake holders and advising of category development, promotional activity and changes in market conditions
• handling other related functions as necessary

To qualify, you must have a Bachelor’s Degree in Business or related field, along with sales or financial analyst experience. The ability to lead change; convert insights into action in a cross-functional environment. Category management experience will be preferred, as will superior analytical, presentation and project management skills. The ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and excellent interpersonal, oral/written communication and problem solving skills are also essential.

Must be proficient with Microsoft Office suite including Word, Excel, Power Point and Access.

We offer a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

EOE M/F/D/V (Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Female/Disabled/Veteran)

In compliance with Federal and State equal employment opportunity laws, qualified applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, marriage status, or the presence of a non-job-related medical condition or handicap, sexual orientation, or citizenship status.

Standard Motor Products is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.