Category Manager

Role Overview

Category Manager at Apparel Group. This role leads category strategy, buying, merchandising, and performance management within the apparel retail business.

Role Purpose

Develop and execute category strategies that drive growth, optimize inventory and supplier relationships, lead merchandising teams, and deliver strong financial performance through data-driven decision-making and cross-functional collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

Category Strategy & Planning

• Develop and implement category strategies aligned with overall business objectives.
• Analyze market trends, customer behavior, and competitive insights to support data-driven decision-making.
• Identify growth opportunities through new product introductions and optimization of existing assortments.

Buying & Vendor Management

• Participate in vendor negotiations and factory interactions where deeper involvement is required.
• Work closely with suppliers to optimize costs, terms, and product availability.
• Ensure supplier relationships align with quality, compliance, and ethical sourcing standards.

Merchandising & Inventory Management

• Oversee the merchandising team to ensure effective product placement, visual merchandising, and stock rotation.
• Manage stock levels, demand planning, and replenishment strategies to reduce stock-outs and overstocking.
• Coordinate with supply chain and logistics teams for timely product availability.

Sales & Performance Analysis

• Track category performance using key metrics such as sales, margins, stock turns, and profitability.
• Generate reports and insights to optimize category performance.
• Adjust pricing, promotions, and assortment strategies based on sales performance and market feedback.

Team Leadership & Coordination

• Lead a team of merchandisers, ensuring alignment with category goals.
• Provide training and development to enhance team capabilities in merchandising and buying functions.
• Work cross-functionally with marketing, operations, and finance to drive category success.

Qualifications & Experience

• 6–8 years of experience in category management, buying, or merchandising within the retail industry.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Retail, or a related field.
• Strong skills in assortment planning, vendor management, and inventory control.
• Proven ability to analyze data and drive category performance.
• Experience in leading cross-functional collaboration across supply chain, marketing, and operations.