The Category Manager is responsible for managing assigned product categories in a retail environment, driving sales growth, optimizing category performance, and ensuring alignment with overall business strategy.

The role acts as a key business partner, collaborating with internal stakeholders and suppliers and clients to deliver profitable growth, cost efficiency, and competitive product offering.

Key Responsibilities

·       Develop and implement category strategies aligned with business objectives

·       Manage end-to-end category performance including sales, margins, and stock levels

·       Analyze market trends, customer behavior, and competitor activity to identify opportunities

·       Lead supplier selection, negotiations, and performance management

·       Drive cost optimization initiatives while maintaining product quality and availability

·       Ensure optimal product assortment, pricing strategy, and promotional planning

·       Collaborate with operations, marketing, and finance teams to execute category plans

·       Monitor inventory levels to minimize stock-outs and overstock situations

·       Support new product development and introduction within the category

·       Ensure compliance with company policies, supplier agreements, and regulatory requirements

Qualifications & Experience

·       Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Marketing, or related field

·       3–5 years of experience in category management, marketing or retail merchandising

·       Experience in retail or FMCG environment is essential

·       Proven track record in supplier negotiations and commercial decision-making

Skills & Competencies

·       Strong analytical and data interpretation skills

·       Negotiation and influencing abilities

·       Commercial and financial acumen

·       Strategic thinking with execution capability

·       Strong stakeholder management and communication skills

·       Problem-solving and decision-making ability

·       Proficiency in Excel and retail systems (ERP, inventory tools)