Category Manager Job Description

A female category manager presenting to a senior management member with data on the screen in the background

A Category Manager analyzes industry and consumer trends, develops long-term strategies for product categories and builds and manages vendor relationships in an effort to improve customer experience and drive sales growth.

By: Jericka Orellano

November 21, 2023

Their expertise will be crucial in maximizing consumer appeal through effective pricing strategies, promotion initiatives and optimal product range management.

Category Managers should have a proven track record in delivering sales targets, a keen eye for market trends and strong organization and analytical skills.

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Category Manager Job Overview

[Company Name] is looking for a Category Manager to manage our operations specifically for our [health, beauty and home care] products. You’ll be in charge of product portfolio management, brand strategy and sales and performance analyses.

We’re looking for candidates who have at least [Number] years in sales or category management and a willingness to travel to different parts of the country for campaigns.

Salary: $44–$50/hour

Tips: No

Schedule: Full-time, flexible hours as needed, can include weekends and holidays

Category Manager Duties & Responsibilities

Analyze industry and consumer trends to identify opportunities and threats within assigned product categories
Develop and implement long-term strategies to achieve business objectives and drive category growth
Build and manage relationships with vendors, negotiating favorable terms and agreements to ensure optimal product availability and pricing
Maximize consumer appeal through strategic pricing, promotion and product range management
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and effective execution of category strategies
Utilize strong analytical skills to interpret data, identify key insights and make informed decisions
Stay abreast of market developments, competitor activities and emerging trends to inform and adapt category strategies
Attend trade fairs to assemble a new product collection
Communicate with the senior management team whenever necessary

Category Manager Experience Requirements & Skills

Minimum of five years of experience in retail, marketing, category management or a related role, demonstrating a successful track record of driving category growth
Strong analytical skills to interpret data and draw actionable insights following sales and consumer behavior
Proficiency in supplier management software and vendor management tools
Excellent negotiation and relationship management skills
Strategic thinking to develop and execute long-term plans
Excellent communication skills to collaborate with external partners and other internal teams
Adaptability to evolving market dynamics and changing consumer preferences
Ability to write well and generate market reports
Willingness to travel to local and international locations for product launches, meetings, etc.

Category Manager Education & Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, Management or a related field
Relevant certifications in category, retail, purchase, supply or vendor management (optional)