POSITION:  Category Manager

DEPARTMENT: Merchandising

REPORTS TO:  Senior Category Management/Director of Category Management

LOCATION: National Operating Center, St. Petersburg, FL

SUMMARY: 

The Category Manager serves as the main point of contact between Partner Brands and SalonCentric. The merchant position is responsible for product selection and management of assigned brand portfolio. Sales, profit, inventory, and promotional effectiveness are key performance metrics. The position works collaboratively with demand planning, supply chain, marketing, learning and development, store replenishment and finance teams. A successful candidate will demonstrate an ability to develop and implement a strategy that covers four sales channels (stores, a commercial sales force, sub distribution partners and E-Commerce) while clearly and effectively communicating plans to channel leaders. 

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Direct management of several brands with varying levels of complexity and size 
• Selecting the right assortment for the professional that will meet / exceed financial goals 
• Analyze market trends and create business strategies to increase sales & profits 
• Plan promotional pricing and strategy to support growth  
• Meet or exceed sales, profit inventory goals 
• Develop exit strategies for low performing items and brands 
• Main point of contact between SalonCentric and the brand. 
• Relationship management of the total assigned brand portfolio  
• Evaluate new product and vendors 
• Onboarding new brands 
• May participate in special projects  
• Communication and collaboration with cross functional department to ensure implementation of business plans 
• Attend retail, industry and company trade shows/events 
• Foster an environment that welcomes change and promotes high levels of ingenuity, integrity, creative thinking, risk tolerance and collaboration 

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in business or related field 
• Strong communication and negotiation skills
• Strategy development/implementation
• Team player, ability to multi-task and problem solve
• Clear and Effective communicator
• Perform well under pressure and deadlines
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
• Self-directed and uses tact and diplomacy in all interactions.
• Proficient in Word, Excel and PowerPoint 
• Must possess a good understanding of inventory and data systems
• 3+ years related work experience required, experience in the Professional Beauty Industry or multi-unit retail store company highly desired   
• Must have long-term authorization to work in the U.S.