Category Manager The Category Manager is responsible for supplier selection, product assortment, implementation of strategies and tactics, growing sales and increasing profitability of assigned product classes in line with total category objectives. This role establishes effective working relationships with key vendors and maximizes supplier negotiations. Major Responsibilities Manage and develop Key/Core/High Profile Supplier Relationships Own and develop Category Plans for Strategic Categories in conjunction with Leadership Responsible for assisting and contributing to the development and creation of the total category / product strategies, objectives and tactics. This position will be accountable for driving the performance of product classes and items within the respective category. Develop a complete range of tactics and initiatives in driving business growth and profitability. Accountable for gross margin / return on investment for assigned category. Maximizes assortment breadth and depth through selection of suppliers and products. Work closely with key suppliers to develop actionable plans designed to improve sales, profits and brand positioning. Responsible for supporting comprehensive marketing plans and initiatives designed to achieve product category goals including promotions, incentives, PR, education and training, trade shows and catalogs. Evaluates alternative and potential categories, products and suppliers based on programs, pricing, market trends, product offering, quality and capacity including discounts, rebates and advertising funds to service ORS Nasco and its key customers. Negotiate and control all product costs. Negotiate all aspects of supplier programs, promotions, payment, freight terms and return policies. Responsible to monitor and communicate supplier performance. Support the strategy, growth and development of ORS Nasco private brands within assigned category. Develop effective cross-functional relationships within the organization in order to effectively accomplish the responsibilities of the function. Relationships include but are not limited to the following teams: Marketing, Customer Care, Operations, Inventory, Sales Leadership, Information Technology and Finance. Performs other duties as assigned Skills/Knowledge Required Strong analytical and decision making skills Excellent communication skills with the ability to work across functions Capacity for creative thinking in negotiating or problem solving atmosphere Exceptional organizational skills and strong attention to detail Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with business partners, client's prospects, subcontractors, and consultants. Expert abilities in Microsoft Office Suite software including Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPointEducation and Experience Bachelor's Degree - Business or related discipline 3+ years experience in merchandising, product management, or category management Notice to all applicants: ORS Nasco is a drug-free workplace. Alcohol and drug misuse poses a threat to the health and safety of ORS Nasco employees and to the security of the company's equipment and facilities. For these reasons, ORS Nasco is committed to the elimination of drug and alcohol use and misuse in the workplace. Employees may be subject to drug screening if safety concerns arise or if reasonable suspicion is warranted. Notice to third-party agencies: ORS Nasco does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruiting Agreement, ORS Nasco will not consider or agree to payment for any referral compensation or recruiter fees. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, ORS Nasco explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers, are deemed to be the property of ORS Nasco.
