Category Manager (Merchant)

We’re looking for a Merchant to manage performance within an assigned product segment or major category. This role develops and executes growth strategies, negotiates competitive vendor programs, and nurtures strong supplier partnerships that support overall catalog and category objectives.

About the role

This is a hybrid position that requires 3 days a week in-person.

Responsibilities

• Oversee category management within an assigned segment or major category, ensuring alignment with business and category strategies
• Negotiate and execute annual vendor programs that deliver competitive pricing, favorable terms, and strategic value
• Develop, implement, and own growth strategies for assigned categories
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key vendors to support long-term category objectives and overall catalog strategy
• Identify opportunities for improvement across pricing, quality, and service, and implement enhancements proactively
• Apply proficiency in category analysis and development to optimize performance and support strategic decision-making
• Utilize strong organizational and communication skills to collaborate effectively across internal and external partners
• Demonstrate knowledge of product materials, features, and attributes to inform category strategy and product decisions
• Independently identify category improvement opportunities and execute plans to address them

Physical Requirements

• Work is performed while sitting/standing and interfacing with a personal computer
• Requires the ability to communicate effectively using speech, vision, and hearing
• Requires the regular use of hands for simple grasping and fine manipulations
• Requires occasional bending, squatting, crawling, climbing, and reaching
• Requires the ability to occasionally lift, carry, push, or pull medium weights, up to 50 lbs

Remote Work Qualifications

• Access to a reliable and secure high-speed internet connection (cable or fiber preferred, at least 75 mbps download / 10 mbps upload)
• Access to a home router and modem
• A dedicated home office space that is noise- and distraction-free, with strong wireless or wired Ethernet connection
• A valid, physical address (no PO boxes)
• Ability to work and communicate with other team members via chat, webcam, etc.
• Legal residency in one of the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CT, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NM, NV, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WI, WV, or WY

H-1B visa sponsorship is not available; W2 employment only.

Experience

2–5 years of experience in a similar role or related work such as category manager or buyer. We consider applicants with diverse majors and work history; relevant positions include Buyer, Procurement Analyst, Sourcing Operations Analyst, Vendor Manager, and Pricing Analyst.

Education

This role does not require a degree. We value relevant skills and experience and alignment with our core values above all else.

Skills

• Mastery and proven track record of all duties, skills, and responsibilities of a Category Analyst/Developer
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Knowledge of product materials and product features
• Ability to identify improvement areas for categories and implement plans independently

Benefits

• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Paid maternity and parental leave
• Life insurance and disability coverage
• Dependent Care FSA
• 401(k) matching
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness incentives
• Company discounts (AT&T & Verizon)
• Bonus opportunities
• Accident and critical illness insurance
• Adoption assistance (available at HQ locations only)
• On-site fitness centers (at HQ)
• Dog-friendly offices