Category Manager

We are seeking a results-driven and strategic Category Manager/Buyer to develop, manage and optimize specific product categories within our retail operations. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the retail landscape and consumer behavior, retail buying experience, and a proven track record of driving sales growth and improving profitability. You will be responsible for developing and executing category strategies, managing vendor relationships, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize product mix and deliver results for the business.

We are looking for 3 Category Managers for 3 different categories: 

• Bed & Bath
• Kitchen & Dining
• Home Organization & Décor

In this role you will:

• Develop and implement category strategies aligned with business objectives and customer insights, while achieving sales and margin objectives
• Manage product assortment and planning, including new item selection, SKU rationalization, and discontinuations
• Conduct regular assortment reviews to optimize product mix based on customer demand and profitability
• Evaluate new products and vendors, attending trade shows and conducting market visits 
• Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers, negotiating pricing, terms, and promotional support to secure the best value and product quality
• Research the competitive landscape and understand industry benchmarking standards on pricing, assortment, merchandising, promotional activity, etc.
• Lead the development and execution of pricing strategies; conduct competitive analysis to ensure pricing aligns with market trends and company goals
• Work with Visual Merchandising team to design planograms, in-store and online visual merchandising strategies
• Collaborate with the marketing team on promotional planning and execution
• Collaborate with planning and supply chain teams to monitor stock levels, sell-through, and replenishment needs
• Analyze performance data and identify opportunities for growth and improvement
• Provide regular reporting on category performance, key metrics, and strategic recommendations to senior management 
• Hold financial accountability for your categories; build annual category budgets, sales forecasts, and margin plans

Qualifications

The Qualifications and Experience we like to see:

• University or College degree in Business-related discipline
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in category management, merchandising, or buying, within the retail industry (ideally categories within Home Goods) 
• Expertise in pricing strategy and assortment planning
• Strong vendor management and negotiation skills 
• Experience with direct sourcing and product development
• Prior involvement in marketing campaigns and in-store visual presentations is an asset
• Proven track record of developing and executing business plans that achieve financial performance and operational targets 
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and translate it into actionable strategies
• Ability to manage multiple and competing priorities in a fast-pace work environment
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Advanced MS Office Suite expertise, including advanced Excel skills and the ability to create and deliver engaging PowerPoint presentations 
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to influence and collaborate with diverse teams
• Able to travel for trade shows, vendor meetings, store openings, etc.

Additional information

This is a current open position. The salary range for this position is $85, $110,000.00 annually. Actual salary for the role may vary depending on work location of the successful candidate and other factors including but not limited to, skills, education, experience, working conditions and the local labour market. 

Our recruitment process incorporates various screening technologies, which may include AI, to screen for employability or suitability. Human recruiters review all applications.