Category Manager

The Category Manager – Metals will own and drive the overall strategy for assigned metal product categories. This role serves as the internal subject-matter expert and primary supplier liaison, partnering cross-functionally with Sales, Supply Chain, Marketing, and Product Specialists to deliver profitable growth, optimize inventory, and expand Harrington’s market presence.

Key Responsibilities

• Own the end-to-end category strategy for Metals, including supplier relationships, supplier performance management (QBRs), sourcing strategies, inventory modeling, and new product introductions. Serve as the internal “go-to” expert for assigned suppliers.
• Lead supplier negotiations, including pricing, contracts, rebates, and commercial agreements.
• Partner closely with Supply Chain to optimize inventory levels, service performance, and strategic buys while ensuring growth targets are met to maximize back-end rebates.
• Own pricing strategy for the category, including price updates/uploads into the HIPCO system, standard cost strategy (screen cost), and first-cost negotiations.
  Develop cost and pricing strategies to strengthen Harrington’s competitive position and support participation in Harrington’s GROW program.
• Collaborate with suppliers and Marketing to design and execute differentiated marketing programs that grow sales, market share, and product adoption.
• Monitor market trends, commodity pricing, competitive dynamics, and customer needs within the Metals category to identify expansion opportunities and new product introductions.
• Work cross-functionally with Sales, Supply Chain, Product Specialists, and Marketing to support category execution, training, and field engagement.

Qualifications & Experience

• Associate’s degree (A.A.) or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school required; Bachelor’s degree preferred
• 4+ years of experience in purchasing, category management, or sales within a wholesale distribution environment, with a strong preference for metals, PVF, or industrial materials
• Strong understanding of metal commodities (e.g., carbon steel, stainless, alloys), pricing dynamics, and supply chain considerations
• Proven ability to manage supplier relationships, pricing strategies, and inventory performance
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and cross-functional collaboration skills
  Ability to translate market insights into actionable category and growth strategies