Category Manager

Job Description Location: Bolton Department: Product Management Reports To: Senior Manager Category Management About The Role We are seeking a Category Manager to drive growth and execution across our retail merchandising product lines. This role is ideal for an experienced professional who thrives in a fast‑paced environment, understands the Automotive Aftermarket, and can manage everything from strategy development to day‑to‑day execution. As a Category Manager, you will serve as the primary liaison between vendors, Carquest member companies and internal teams, ensuring that our products remain competitively positioned in the Canadian marketplace. Key Responsibilities Execute strategic category management plans in alignment with company objectives. Partner cross‑functionally with Sales, Operations, Purchasing, Inventory Planning, and Marketing. Manage product master database, DC stocking decisions, and field support. Analyze competitive intelligence and recommend strategies. Collaborate with Advance Auto Parts Category teams on product line reviews and forward planning. Maintain vendor relationships and oversee lifecycle management, seasonal demand, and assortment planning. Monitor pricing, gross profit, and inventory to maximize return on investment. Lead communications for product management activities, notices, and recalls. What You Bring Strong knowledge of the Automotive Aftermarket and product channel. Strategic thinker with the ability to anticipate and adapt to market shifts. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint and Word – with data analysis and reporting. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Strong interpersonal and presentation skills; comfortable working cross‑functionally. Problem‑solver who can work independently while delivering high‑quality results. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree, college diploma, or equivalent experience. 4–6 years of category management experience (automotive aftermarket experience strongly preferred). Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level Employment Type Full‑time Job Function Marketing and Sales Industries Motor Vehicle Manufacturing and Retail Why Join Us? At Carquest Canada, we foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. As part of our team, you’ll have the opportunity to shape category strategy in a growing business and collaborate with industry‑leading partners and cross‑functional teams. We Offer The Following Benefits Dental care Employee assistance program Employee stock purchase plan Extended health care On‑site parking Paid time off RRSP match Store discount Vision care Apply Now If you’re ready to take on this exciting challenge, we’d love to hear from you Compensation Range The range of expected compensation for this role is between 90,000.00 CAD and 112,500.00 CAD salary for a new team member. The rate offered to a successful candidate depends on multiple factors, including geographic location, experience in retail, automotive knowledge, education, leadership roles, and other skillsets ideal for this position and shift differential (if applicable). Additional Benefits Opportunity to work for one of the largest after‑market auto parts provider in North America Visibility to career growth opportunities across the entire Advance Auto Parts organization Unlock earning potential with monthly or annual performance bonuses—eligibility varies by role. Access to a robust online training system for personal or leadership development A rewarding organizational culture through our team member recognition program Group health, dental, disability and life insurance coverage Employee discounts Financial benefits including group RRSP with employer contribution and discounted stock purchase plans for all permanent team members We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class. Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Advance Auto Parts by 2x We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI. #J-18808-Ljbffr