Key Responsibilities

• Build and deliver category plans (sales, margin, stock turn, availability, markdown control).
• Develop assortments: core, seasonal, gifting, and newness; manage product lifecycle (launch to exit).
• Set pricing guidelines and promo calendar (bundles, GWP, seasonal events); track promo ROI.
• Lead brand/supplier relationships: negotiations, joint business plans, trade terms, rebates, marketing support, point of sales material, testers/sampling.
• Manage and guide buyers; coordinate buying decisions to ensure alignment on assortment and commercial strategy.
• Partner with Supply Chain/Planning on forecasting, replenishment, and inventory health (weeks to cover, sell-through, aging).
• Work with VM/Operations to execute planograms, displays, and brand standards; conduct regular store visits and audits.
• Monitor performance and provide actionable insights (weekly/monthly reviews, competitor checks, trend scans).

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business/Marketing or related field.
• At least five (5) years in category management/merchandising (beauty/fragrance/cosmetics or specialty retail preferred).
• Strong negotiation skills and proven track record delivering category growth.
• Advanced Excel and strong retail KPI understanding (sales, margin, stock turn, sell-through, markdowns).
• Hands-on, detail-oriented, and comfortable with frequent store visits.

Success Measures (KPIs)

• Sales & margin growth
• Stock turn & availability
• Sell-through
• Aged stock reduction
• Markdown control
• Promo ROI
• Trade support secured
• Store execution compliance