The Category Manager is responsible for managing assigned product categories (food and non-food), driving sales growth, optimizing product assortment, and ensuring effective inventory and supplier management. The role requires strong analytical skills, market awareness, and execution of category strategies aligned with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Category Management

• Manage and oversee assigned categories (e.g., snacks, beverages, personal care, household items, general merchandise).
• Develop and execute category strategies to achieve sales, margin, and inventory targets.
• Analyze sales performance, market trends, and customer behavior to identify opportunities.

Product Selection & Merchandising

• Curate product assortment based on consumer demand and market trends.
• Ensure proper product placement, planograms, and in-store visibility.
• Coordinate promotions, pricing strategies, and seasonal campaigns.

Supplier & Vendor Management

• Liaise with suppliers for product sourcing, negotiations, and promotions.
• Monitor supplier performance, pricing, and delivery timelines.
• Identify and onboard new vendors to expand category offerings.

Inventory & Supply Chain

• Monitor stock levels, turnover rates, and minimize stockouts or overstocking.
• Collaborate with supply chain and store operations to ensure product availability
• Manage product lifecycle including new product introductions and discontinuations.

Sales & Performance Analysis

• Track category KPIs such as sales, margins, shrinkage, and inventory turnover.
• Prepare regular reports and insights for management.
• Recommend corrective actions to improve underperforming categories.

Market & Competitor Analysis

• Conduct regular competitor benchmarking and store visits.
• Stay updated on industry trends, pricing strategies, and new product innovations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Retail Management, or related field.
• 2–5 years experience in category management, merchandising, or buying in convenience stores, supermarkets, or general merchandise retail.
• Experience handling either food and non-food categories is required.