Vendor Relationship Management: Act as the primary point of contact for existing vendor partners within the assigned category.
Product Lifecycle Management: Oversee categories throughout the entire product lifecycle, from initial "go-to-market" planning to end-of-lifecycle markdowns and delisting.
Assortment Optimization: Optimize product assortment for the assigned categories, with a focus on maximizing membership profitability.
Data Analysis: Analyze financial data to provide fact-based insights into trends, seasonality, promotions, challenges, and opportunities. Leverage data to develop stronger programs and source new category vendors in alignment with trends.
Vendor Negotiations: Negotiate policy agreements with vendor partners, including discounts, costing, payment and freight terms, volume rebates, brand development, and co-op advertising. Monitor and take appropriate action on vendor performance.
Collaboration: Collaborate independently and with store committees to develop product listings and go-to-market strategies.
Vendor Information Management: Maintain and communicate all vendor information, including product launches and calendars, while ensuring accurate processing of product data for assigned categories.
Stakeholder Collaboration: Collaborate with key internal stakeholders (Marketing, IT, Buying, Accounting) to gather best practices, expertise, and experiences, ensuring the smooth implementation of buying strategies/initiatives for assigned categories.
Warehouse Programs: Develop and replenish warehouse programs for assigned categories to optimize cost of goods and service levels.
Exclusive Products: Create Source Exclusive products in select categories that align with strategic goals and differentiate the members' offerings.
Marketing Coordination: Manage communication processes with Marketing and Website teams regarding planned promotions, product launches, markdowns, and product removal from the website.
Advertising Planning: Plan advertising initiatives in coordination with key stakeholders (Marketing, Committees) and communicate these plans to vendor partners.
Presentations: Deliver presentations to key stakeholders, including Members and Senior Management.
Requirements
An Undergraduate Degree is preferred.
Minimum of 5-10 years of category management or relevant experience.
Strong understanding of "Go-to-Market" cycle principles and processes.
Proficiency in Excel (Intermediate). Ability to turn raw data into meaningful insights to drive the business.
