Category Manager

Title: Category ManagerIntroduction:This innovative retail concept redefines how customers approach home improvement and hardware shopping. It combines the reliability of a traditional hardware store with a curated, design-forward experience that supports both professional builders and do-it-yourselfers. The concept emphasizes customer service, curated assortments, project-based shopping, and community engagement, with a focus on making every builder feel confident, supported, and inspired from the moment they enter the store.Description:The Category Manager will be responsible for building and managing assigned product categories, ensuring that assortment, pricing, vendor partnerships, and merchandising strategies deliver sales, margin, and customer satisfaction. Reporting to the SVP, General Merchandise Manager, this role combines strategic planning with hands-on execution in a startup environment. The Category Manager will collaborate with cross-functional partners in marketing, operations, finance, and creative to deliver a differentiated assortment and in-store experience. This role requires a strong balance of analytical skills, vendor management expertise, and a customer-first mindset, with the ability to establish scalable merchandising processes from the ground up.Job Responsibilities:Category Strategy: Develop and execute category strategies that drive sales, margin, and customer loyalty, aligning to enterprise merchandising goalsAssortment Planning: Build and manage product assortments, balancing core items, new innovations, and seasonal rotations to meet customer needs and market trendsVendor Partnerships: Source and negotiate with vendors to secure advantaged pricing, terms, and marketing support. Build strong supplier relationships to ensure reliable supply and category innovationPricing and Promotions: Establish pricing strategies and promotional calendars that maximize profitability while maintaining competitive positioning. Partner with marketing to execute omni-channel campaignsMerchandising Execution: Translate category strategies into in-store presentation, planograms, signage, and seasonal sets that enhance customer experience and drive conversionPerformance Analysis: Monitor category KPIs including sales, margin, turns, and in-stock rates. Provide regular insights and recommendations, adjusting strategies to optimize resultsCross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with marketing, operations, creative, and finance to align category initiatives with enterprise goals and ensure seamless executionKnowledge, Skills, and Abilities:Merchandising Expertise: Strong understanding of retail merchandising, assortment planning, and category management best practicesAnalytical Skills: Ability to interpret sales data, market trends, and customer insights to inform decisions and optimize performanceNegotiation and Relationship Building: Skilled in vendor management and negotiation, with a track record of securing favorable terms and building collaborative supplier relationshipsFinancial Acumen: Proficiency with retail financial metrics (sales, margin, GMROI, turns) and the ability to balance growth with profitabilityCustomer Orientation: Deep understanding of customer needs in home improvement and hardware, with a commitment to delivering curated and project-based assortmentCollaboration and Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across functions and influence stakeholdersAdaptability: Thrives in a high-growth, startup environment, building new processes while executing daily responsibilitiesEducation and Certificates:Experience Requirement: 5+ years of merchandising, buying, or category management experience in retail; home improvement or hardware experience preferredFoundational Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Merchandising, or related field requiredAdvanced Preparation: MBA or equivalent preferredProfessional Development: Certifications in category management, retail analytics, or negotiation advantageousCommitment to Learning: Demonstrated ability to stay current with evolving retail practices, analytics, and merchandising toolsPhysical Requirements:Physical Work Requirements - Light: exerting up to 15 lbs of force occasionallyRepetitive motion associated with operating office equipment and computersProlonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computerPeriodic travel to retail stores, vendor meetings, and trade shows within the United StatesCompensation and Benefits:We recognize that attracting and retaining top talent requires a competitive, comprehensive package. In return for your leadership and contributions, you will receive:Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance401(k) with company match and profit sharingPaid time off (PTO) and paid holidaysCareer growth and leadership development opportunities

Created: 2025-11-01