Specsmakers - Category Head/Senior Category Manager/Category Manager (10-15 yrs)

Job description:

Category Manager/Sr Category Manager/Category Head

Position Title: Manager - Category (Eyewear and Sunglasses)

Reports to: VP Merchandising

Location: Chennai

Role & responsibilities:

- Buy, range and manage the category based on the demands and expectations of our customers.

- Develop the category strategy (business plan) annually and review quarterly.

- Prepare the annual category budget with Finance Input.

- Ensure fair, consistent and competitive pricing on all merchandise.

- Achieve category Sales and Gross Profit Budgets.

- Monthly reporting and ad hoc reviews of category financial performance.

- Analysis and monitoring of market activities for threats and opportunities.

- Identify and source new products and suppliers from both India and overseas, also consolidate the number of suppliers for existing products where commercially appropriate.

- Evaluate products to be ranged and deleted.

- Ensure all deadlines are met for the category in all areas.

- Manage the launch of new products into the market to ensure first to market for all critical new lines.

- Work with the buying team to develop item level and promotional forecasting.

- Update and adjust store and promotional models.

- Respond to customer complaints regarding category products.

- Prepare advertising submissions and attend relevant meetings to brief advertising agency.

- Check advertised offers to ensure adequate stock to cover promotional demand.

- Analyze effectiveness of promotions.

- Ensure Buying process and policies are implemented with regards to pricing, recalling of stock, advertising and introduction on new lines

Preferred candidate profile:

- 5+ years' experience as a Category Manager managing product portfolios.

- Educational Qualification: Post Graduate/MBA

- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

- Strong negotiation skills.

- Accurate numerical and analytical skills.

- Strong analytical ability and ability to synthesizing information into actionable objectives, planning and outcomes.

- Good fundamental understanding of analytical & communication tools.

- Ability to generate and present actionable recommendations to a diverse range of stakeholders.

- Capable of managing and executing complex project management tasks.

- Data-driven thinking.

- Highly creative and innovative approach.

- Strong collaborative & growth mindset.

- Strong People management skills.