TEAM MEMBER MUST WORK FROM OUR RALEIGH, NC HQ FOUR DAYS A WEEK.

Strategic, data-driven, and collaborative Category Manager owns the development and execution of category strategies that drive business growth through optimized supplier partnerships and enhanced customer satisfaction. This role requires a foundation in category strategy creation and execution, financial acumen, supplier negotiation, and cross-functional leadership. 

Key Responsibilities: 

Category Management 

• Assesses category lifecycle stages and aligns strategies accordingly. 

• Identifies categories requiring resource reallocation and strategic focus. 

• Collaborates with research teams to integrate insights into category planning. 

• Leverages competitive pricing strategies in the market, including retail, promotional, and professional pricing strategies. 

• Resolves conflicts that impact category strategy execution. 

• Distinguishes product types that perform best within specific categories. 

• Coaches team members on category planning to improve business outcomes. 

Business Acumen – Financial Management 

• Analyzes and forecasts short- and long-term financial needs for assigned categories. 

• Evaluates business and investment decisions for financial impact. 

• Recommends improvements to financial tools and processes. 

• Interprets financial statements to assess risks and opportunities. 

• Applies financial metrics to support strategic decision-making. 

• Mentors others in developing financial literacy and responsibility. 

Supplier Management & Negotiation 

• Defines supplier value targets and selects appropriate suppliers for strategic sourcing. 

• Prepares and prioritizes negotiation points using data from multiple sources. 

• Leads negotiations across product categories, applying BATNA principles. 

• Anticipates and counters supplier arguments effectively. 

• Evaluates supplier performance data to inform future negotiations and sourcing decisions. 

Visionary Thinking – Strategic Execution 

• Assists in the creation of implementation plans for the vision  

• Applies information from the business and industry to formulate potential product category strategies 

• Analyzes customer base for a given product category and determines potential changes and shifts that impact the overall Company  

• Integrates the strategic vision into a given product category through execution of day-to-day operational goals 

Communication 

• Communicates complex and sensitive topics with clarity and diplomacy. 

• Fosters open dialogue and encourages idea sharing across teams. 

• Provides coaching on effective communication techniques and tools. 

• Actively listens to understand before responding and adapt communication styles as needed. 

Cross-Functional Leadership 

• Identifies the steps in the team formation process (e.g., forming, storming, norming, performing). 

• Recognizes and communicates barriers to effective teamwork. 

• Identifies and resolves conflicts (interpersonal) to effective teamwork by giving and seeking feedback. 

• Takes initiative and provides leadership for the team even if not officially designated "leader". 

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, Finance, or related field. 

• 8+ years of experience in category management, strategic sourcing, or procurement. 

• Strong analytical and financial modeling skills. 

• Proven experience in supplier negotiations and performance management. 

• Excellent communication, leadership, and coaching abilities. 

• Proficiency in category management tools, ERP systems, and data visualization platforms. 

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