Category Manager

The successful candidate for the Category Manager position will play a crucial role in our Purchasing department. They will be responsible for managing a specific product category, collaborating with suppliers, sales teams, and marketing professionals to drive success. Their analytical skills, strategic thinking, and industry insights will be key to achieving our business goals.

This opportunity is flexible in location: Saint John, New Brunswick, or Halifax, Nova Scotia areas.

• Develop and execute a business plan that maximizes sales and profitability of your product categories.
• Analyze data and consumer trends to develop long-term strategies for your assigned product category.
• Devise exit strategies for underperforming products.
• Foster strong relationships with vendors.
• Determine product positioning and pricing.
• Collaborate with marketing teams to create effective campaigns.
• Forecast product demand and inventory needs.
• Agreement negotiation
• Product development and sourcing through our current vendor base or import by attending trade shows, vendor visits and/or buying group meetings.

• Work with cross-function teams to achieve the plan.

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field.

• Previous experience in category management, preferably in retail or product-focused industries is considered an asset.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication, presentation and negotiation abilities.
• Proficiency in using technology for efficient work processes.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced entrepreneurial environment.
• Able to focus on the detail without losing sight of the big picture.
• Ability to plan, execute and handle multiple projects and priorities successfully.

Kent is the largest retail building supply chain in Atlantic Canada. With 48 locations and an ecommerce website, our mission is to be the best source of home improvement products through superior customer service and know-how, quality products, and everyday great prices. We protect our customers and staff by hiring and training associates committed to our safety values. We employ over 3,700 people and work hard to increase our market share through strategic investment in training and technology. We focus on the development of our people and promote a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. In addition to our retail stores, we operate truss manufacturing facilities and a wholesale drywall company. We are a member of Independent Lumber Dealers Co-operative and the ARENA buying group which ensures our great product selection and pricing

Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) has operations in Canada and the United States and are a team of 20,000 dedicated employees. At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions.

We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities.

Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply.

We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.