Category Manager

**About Us**

Aquiform is the largest Canadian wholesale distributor to the pool and spa industry. Aquiform takes pride in its abilities in promoting and growing new and exciting pool and spa products. We aim to provide timely and efficient deliveries to an extensive customer base with the support of our experienced sales force who have deep roots in the industry.

**Job Summary**

The Category Manager for the Patio Furniture division is responsible for driving the growth and profitability of our patio furniture line. This role is an overreaching responsibility of the patio furniture program and division with Aquiform. This role will consist of analyzing market trends, developing product assortments, and collaborating with marketing, sales, and suppliers to ensure the successful promotion and distribution of our products.

Reporting to the Purchasing and Procurement Department, this is an on-site position.

**Main Responsibilities**
- **Strategic Leadership**:Develop and execute the overall business strategy to achieve growth and profitability targets. Lead, motivate, and manage cross-functional teams across retail, e-commerce, purchasing, and warehouse operations.
- **Market Analysis**: Conduct in-depth research on outdoor living trends, consumer preferences, and competitor offerings to inform category strategy.
- **Product Strategy**: Develop and implement strategic plans for the patio furniture category, focusing on new product development, pricing, and promotional activities.
- **Vendor Management**: Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and manufacturers to negotiate pricing, terms, and product availability.
- **Assortment Planning**: Curate and manage a comprehensive product assortment that meets customer needs while maximizing profitability and market presence.
- **Sales Performance Tracking**: Monitor category performance metrics, analyzing sales data to identify opportunities for growth and improvement.
- **Cross-Functional Collaboration**: Work closely with marketing and sales teams to create effective promotional campaigns and ensure alignment on category objectives.
- **Inventory Management**: Oversee inventory levels, ensuring optimal stock to meet demand while minimizing excess.
- **Team Leadership**: Mentor and guide a team of category specialists, fostering a culture of collaboration and high performance.
- **Customer Relationship Management**(in alignment with Vendor management): Focus on sustaining and further developing key customer relationships to enhance sales growth and selling strategies.
- **Presenting and Sales**: Provide education and training to sell the product line selected.

**Qualifications**
- Bachelor’s degree in Business or a related field.
- 5 or more years of experience in category management, preferably in outdoor furniture or home goods.
- Strong analytical skills with experience in sales forecasting and market analysis.
- Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
- Proven track record of developing and executing successful category strategies.

**Skills**
- Deep understanding of outdoor living trends and consumer behavior.
- Strong project management abilities with attention to detail.
- Ability to analyze data and make data-driven decisions.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills.

**What We Offer**
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
- Aquiform is committed to promoting accessible recruitment as outlined in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. Aquiform will work to accommodate persons with a disability in an appropriate and effective manner throughout all stages of the recruitment process. Accommodations will be provided upon request._

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

Pay: From $65,000.00 per year

**Benefits**:

- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Paid time off

Schedule:

- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed

**Education**:

- Bachelor's Degree (preferred)

**Experience**:

- Category Management: 5 years (required)

Work Location: In person