Category Merchant

What You Will Be Doing

• Develop and execute category strategies that drive sales, profitability, and market share growth.
• Create and manage assortment, pricing, promotional, and marketing plans aligned with business objectives.
• Analyze market trends, competitive activity, customer insights, and sales performance to identify opportunities for growth.
• Build and maintain strong vendor partnerships, negotiate favorable terms, and ensure contract compliance.
• Monitor vendor performance related to product availability, quality, fulfillment, and delivery.
• Leverage analytics and business intelligence tools to make data-driven merchandising decisions.
• Partner with Supply Chain teams to optimize inventory levels and product availability while minimizing excess inventory.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Sales, Operations, Finance, and eCommerce partners to execute integrated go-to-market strategies.
• Manage category budgets, forecasting, and financial performance reporting.
• Present category performance insights, business recommendations, and growth opportunities to senior leadership.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with vendor relationships and supply chain operations.
• Lead and develop team members through coaching, performance management, and ongoing professional development.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, or equivalent work experience.
• 7+ years of experience in merchandising, category management, product management, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience leading teams, managing direct reports, or overseeing complex cross-functional initiatives.
• Experience developing and executing category strategies that drive sales, margin, and profitability improvements.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency with Excel, BI, reporting, or other data analysis tools.
• Proven success negotiating vendor agreements and managing supplier relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to make data-driven decisions and influence stakeholders across multiple business functions.

Preferred Qualifications

• MBA or other advanced business degree.
• Experience utilizing advanced analytics and visualization tools such as Tableau or Power BI.
• Experience leading innovative category initiatives that resulted in measurable business growth.
• Background working in an omnichannel retail environment, supporting both store and eCommerce merchandising strategies.
• Professional certifications such as PMP, APICS, or similar credentials.