Category Manager

Category Manager

About McNaughton McKay Group:

McNaughton McKay Group (MMG) is a 100% employee-owned distributor of electrical and PVF (pipes, valves, and fittings) solutions, serving the industrial, commercial and construction markets. Our portfolio of trusted brands operates from more than 60 branches across nine states and Germany. At MMG, we do more than deliver products. We build lasting partnerships—backed by deep inventory and local expertise—to keep your projects moving and businesses growing. Our empowered team provides the support, insight and scalable solutions needed to navigate today’s demands and solve our customers’ most complex challenges.

Role Purpose:

The Category Manager is responsible for the day-to-day management and performance of assigned product categories within the company’s distribution network. This role supports enterprise category strategies by managing vendor relationships, administering supplier programs, monitoring category performance, and partnering with internal teams to drive profitable growth and supply continuity. With a strong emphasis on vendor coordination, category executions, and performance tracking, the Category Manager serves as a key operational owner for product categories and acts as a primary liaison between suppliers and internal stakeholders.

As Category Manager, you will:

Category Management & Execution

• Support the development and execution of category strategies for assigned product category lines.
• Manage ongoing category performance, including sales trends, margins, inventory levels, and supplier compliance.
• Maintain accurate category data, pricing structures, and program documentation.

Vendor Relationship Management

• Serve as a primary point of contact for assigned suppliers, maintaining productive working relationships.
• Coordinate vendor communications related to pricing updates, product changes, programs, and availability.
• Support supplier business reviews and performance discussions.

Supplier Program Administration

• Administer supplier rebate, incentive, and growth programs.
• Track program participation and compliance, ensuring internal teams understand requirements and deadlines.
• Partner with Finance to validate rebate accruals and payouts.

Market & Category Analysis

• Monitor commodity and supplier trends impacting assigned categories.
• Analyze pricing, cost changes, and margin impact, escalating risk or opportunities as needed.

Desired Knowledge/Skills/Abilities Include:

• Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in Business, Operations, or related field; equivalent experience will be considered.
• 3+ years or experience in category management, vendor relations, procurement, pricing, or supply chain roles, preferably within electrical distribution.
• Working knowledge of supplier programs, pricing structures, and product lifecycle management.
• Strong analytical skills with experience using Excel and ERP or procurement systems.
• Effective communication and relationship-management skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and collaborate across functions.

Reporting Structure:

Reports To: Director of Category Management

Direct Reports: None

Working Conditions:

Normal office environment with hybrid flexibility; travel within Michigan, Ohio, the Carolinas, Georgia, and Texas as needed.

EEO/AA/M/F/Vet/Disability Employer:

The above statements are intended to describe the essential functions and related requirements of persons assigned to this job. They are not intended as an exhaustive list of all job duties, responsibilities and requirements.