Associate Category Manager

ASSOCIATE CATEGORY MANAGER Reports to: Sr. Director, Filters & MRO FLSA status: Exempt Work Location: Hybrid (Naperville, IL) BASIC FUNCTION: The Associate Category Manager (ACM) will support the Category Management team to develop and communicate category plans that align with annual company goals. The ACM will develop an understanding of products, industry, systems, and processes to assume greater responsibilities in the future. The position will support research and analytics on existing brands, products, and all competitive market trends. The ACM will partner with vendors on new product launches, promotions and marketing strategies and work to execute with all internal partners. TYPICAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO, THE FOLLOWING: New item set up Populate new item template with required Master Data Management (MDM) information Own the gathering of Ecommerce digital assets and other vendor related needs Load new item communication on SharePoint for sales team visibility Update new items list Update discontinued/superseded items list Vendor programs Maintain master vendor program matrix Create and maintain vendor templates with vendor support Update ERP vendor instructions (terms, discounts, prepaid minimums, etc.) Update ERP Defective and Return Policy by vendor Support category/brand reviews MDM maintenance and Ecommerce content review as needed Assist in the development of effective promotions across all sales channels? Support vendor or customer meetings related to product assortment, cost negotiations, and data requirements Assist in the preparation of internal presentations and senior management monthly reporting Assist in fielding product related questions from Sales team Engage cross-functionally with Global Sourcing, Marketing, Sales, and Replenishment teams BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's Degree 1-3 years ACM experience Proficient in working with databases and possessing other computer skills such as MS Office (Excel/Word/ PowerPoint, etc.) Ability to take raw data and make category suggestions Ability to maintain a professional image and positively represent the company Ability to work independently and successfully manage time, multiple projects, and changing priorities Strong organizational skills Strong verbal/written communication, problem-solving and presentation skills Experience with enterprise systems (ERPs) Detail oriented Collaborative Quick to learn and adapt - anticipate & remove obstacles in advance to drive greatest impact Champion new ideas to influence the course of the business

Created: 2026-03-10