Guitar Category Manager

The Guitar Brands Category Manager is the strategic leader responsible for the overall brand strategy, commercial success, and supplier relationships for Korg Tuners & Guitar Products, VOX, and Blackstar within the North American market. This role serves as the key link between Korg USA and the parent companies (Korg Inc., VOX Global Team, and Blackstar), collaborating closely with manufacturing partners to ensure optimal representation and support of products in the domestic market.

ACCOUNTABILITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and execute comprehensive brand strategies to drive growth, market share, and profitability.
• Collaborate with the North American and Latin American Team to align global sales and brand strategy.
• Serve as the primary liaison with manufacturing/brand partners, fostering strong, collaborative relationships and ensuring mutual objectives are met.
• Collaborate with Sales and Marketing to design and implement go-to-market strategies, product launches, and promotional campaigns.
• Continuously monitor market trends, identify opportunities and threats, and provide actionable insights to inform decision-making.
• Establish and track KPIs for sales initiatives, using data to refine strategies and optimize results.
• Oversee the full lifecycle of products, from launch to end-of-life, ensuring smooth transitions and maximizing value.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Provide direction to the Category Marketing Lead, delegating tactical and administrative tasks to enable a focus on strategic priorities.
• Delegate tactical marketing execution, campaign management, and administrative tasks to the Category Marketing Manager and Category Product Specialist.
• Manage, mentor, and guide the Category Marketing Lead, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
• Perform other duties as assigned

REQUIREMENTS / QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's Degree in Music Business, Business, Marketing or related field.
• Previous experience in category management, product management, or related roles within the musical instrument industry.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful sales and marketing strategies.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and market trends to inform decision-making.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with internal teams and external partners.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and other relevant software applications
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed.
• Knowledge of musical instruments and audio equipment preferred.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to commute to Melville, NY three times per week, and as needed.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.