Sr. Merchant, Category Solutions

The Sr. Category Solutions Merchant drives the strategic category plan for multiple departments, overseeing channel strategy, vertical engagement, store optimization, offer development, and go-to-market execution. This role requires deep customer-segment understanding to maximize spend and develop new products, services, and solutions. Partners with the VP of Merchandising to craft 1-3 year category strategies by customer type, directly impacting company income and profitability. Collaborates across teams to establish and execute category plans, strategies, and tactics that deliver sales, margin, and inventory objectives.

Responsibilities

• Develops and mentors direct reports, including coaching, performance management, and long-term career planning.
• Identifies new vendors and products/services that align with the strategic category plan and targeted customer needs.
• Establishes, plans, and implements programs to achieve sales, gross margin, and market share growth.
• Partners with the Sr. Director to develop and execute the strategic category plan; leads cross-functional communication.
• Reviews and utilizes vendor scorecards to manage vendor relationships effectively.
• Collaborates with Financial Forecasting and Solution Analyst to assess category strategy effectiveness against goals.
• Creates and implements vertical and channel strategies aligned with the overall solution strategy.
• Hands off vendor strategy to Assortment Management for micro and vertical assortment development.
• Works with Product Optimization to ensure effective pricing and promotion across all channels, leveraging best price and placement.
• Interacts extensively with executive C-suite professionals both internally and externally.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Merchandising, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in retail and merchandising, including leadership, strategic planning, P&L management, and long-term planning.
• Intermediate PC software skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

Skills

• Strategic Planning and Execution
• Negotiation
• Financial Acumen
• Vendor and Supplier Management
• Market and Consumer Insights
• Project Management
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Problem-Solving

Preferred Attributes

• Visionary Leadership
• Strategic Mindset
• Influence
• Accountability

About the Company

The ODP Group, through its business entities ODP Business Solutions and Office Depot, is a leading provider of products, services, and technology solutions via an integrated B2B distribution platform and omnichannel presence. This includes world-class supply chain operations, dedicated sales professionals, an online presence, and a network of Office Depot and OfficeMax retail stores.

Pay

Salary range: $106,500 – $180,750 per year. All state and local minimum wage laws will be complied with, which may adjust the range.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Incentive program eligibility (per plan terms and conditions)
• Opportunities for career growth and mobility within the organization