Assistant Category Manager

Established in 1973, Holland Imports Inc. is among Canada's largest independent distributors of hard goods. Working with more than 2,500 retailers, it develops, distributes, and markets products across a range of categories including Hardware and Power Tool Accessories, Lawn and Garden Tools, Patio Furniture & Outdoor Décor, and Christmas & Holiday Décor. We are a family-owned company known for its customer service, ability to source, and entrepreneurial drive.

Holland Imports is seeking an Assistant Category Manager (ACM) to join our energetic team. Reporting to two Category Managers (Garden and Outdoor Living), the ACM is responsible for supporting both CMs in the selection and development of products, communicating with factories as well as with key customers, order placement, monitoring shipments, and managing the product database. Due to the seasonality of the categories, the ACM will be expected to be available to work additional hours during peak seasons to ensure deadlines are met. This is a fast-paced role where you will be required to work under tight deadlines. The ACM should be well-organized and able to multi-task, be detail-oriented, have excellent time management skills, and be able to act without guidance.

The responsibilities of the Assistant Category Manager include (but are not limited to) the following:

- Assist the Category Manager with the selection, review, and buying of merchandise to drive sales.
- New product setups and maintaining product database to reflect accurate product information and pricing in both the inventory system and showroom.
- Create and place orders with domestic and overseas factories and manage the process from start to finish.
- Manage product shipping marks from beginning (working with graphics team to develop) to end (review of final shipping marks from factories)
- Review buying plans, purchase orders, and warehouse receiving.
- Assist with the development of planograms, catalogs, flyers, and training manuals.
- Assist with marketing materials for tradeshows.
- Prepare product presentations for customers as needed.
- Maintain travel itineraries for the Category Manager and act on behalf of them while they are away.
- Provide support to sales representatives and customers.
- Manage the shipments of all overseas samples with couriers and freight forwarders.
- Order product samples for the showroom.
- Yearly reset of showrooms and ensuring showroom is regularly maintained and updated throughout the year.
- Provide customer service to end users including shipping or replacement parts.

**Requirements**:

- Analytical, highly organized with strong attention to detail.
- Ability to multitask and adapt to shifting priorities.
- Understanding of data analysis and forecasting methods.
- Strong written and verbal skills in English.
- Strong computer skills, including MS Office.
- Familiarity with FileMaker and NetSuite is an asset.
- Deadline-driven; ability to work with little supervision.
- Ability to establish strong working relationships with factories, customers, and colleagues.
- Solid knowledge of category management, marketing, and sales principles.
- Be physically able to manage samples for the showroom and tradeshows.
- Desire to grow into a category manager role.

**Job Types**: Full-time, Permanent

**Salary**: $42,000.00-$55,000.00 per year

**Benefits**:

- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Vision care

Flexible Language Requirement:

- French not required

Schedule:

- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday

Supplemental pay types:

- Bonus pay

Work Location: In person