Category Manager/ Executive

The Category Manager is responsible for sourcing, selecting, and managing products across functional store locations. This role ensures optimal inventory levels, competitive pricing, and appealing product presentation. The position requires strong coordination with suppliers, internal sales, procurement, and logistics teams to deliver value and meet customer expectations.

Accountability & Responsibilities of Role:

Product Selection & Category Development

• Identify, evaluate, and source products that align with market trends, customer needs, and the company’s brand positioning.
• Continuously optimize product assortment to drive category growth and enhance customer satisfaction.
• Conduct market benchmarking and competitor analysis to stay ahead of industry developments.

Vendor Management & Negotiation

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, manufacturers, and OEMs.
• Negotiate cost prices, payment terms, rebates, and promotional support to maximize profitability.
• Evaluate vendor performance based on quality, delivery, and service metrics.

Inventory & Supply Chain Coordination

• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with procurement, warehouse, and logistics teams to ensure product availability and timely replenishment.
• Minimize excess stock and dead inventory through demand planning and stock aging reviews.
• Lead initiatives for inventory returns and liquidation of slow-moving items.

Sales Forecasting & Demand Planning

• Work closely with sales, marketing, and finance teams to develop accurate forecasts and seasonal plans.
• Leverage historical data, promotions, and market intelligence to support forecasting decisions.

Pricing & Promotions Strategy

• Set competitive pricing strategies in line with margin targets and market positioning.
• Develop and execute category-specific promotions and campaigns in collaboration with the marketing team.
• Track promotional effectiveness and make adjustments to optimize ROI.

Visual Merchandising & Planogram Management

• Design and implement planograms to ensure optimal product visibility and space utilization.
• Align in-store product presentation with brand standards and category strategy.
• Conduct regular store visits to audit merchandising execution and collect field insights.

Data Analysis & Performance Reporting

• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as sales, margin, stock turnover, and supplier performance.
• Generate weekly and monthly reports for senior management with actionable insights.
• Utilize data analytics tools to support category decisions and continuous improvement.

8. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Leadership

• Act as the primary point of contact for the category across departments such as marketing, finance, retail operations, and e-commerce.
• Provide guidance and support to store teams to help achieve sales and margin targets.
• Drive initiatives that improve operational efficiency, customer experience, and category profitability.

Position Requirement:

Educational Background:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Marketing, or a related field.
• A Master’s degree or relevant certification (e.g., CIPS, PMP) is a plus.

Work Experience:

• Minimum 4+ years of experience in category management, product selection, or procurement within electronics, telecom, or similar industries; strong expertise in inventory and stock management is required.
• Alternatively, 5+ years of experience managing categories such as toys, kids' products, or stationery in a retail or e-commerce environment.
• Demonstrated experience working with suppliers and vendors, preferably across regional or international markets.
• Solid experience in negotiation, product lifecycle management, and sales analytics.