Category Manager

Join to apply for the Category Manager (General Merchandise) role at DFI Retail Group . We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Category Manager to take full ownership of our General Merchandise (GMS) and Cotton categories and redemption programs. This pivotal role is responsible for driving commercial performance, from sourcing and range development to executing powerful redemption programs. The ideal candidate will act as a key bridge between the Commercial and Own Brand teams, ensuring a cohesive and profitable category strategy that aligns with our brand vision and business objectives. Is this your next challenge in category management? Responsibilities 1. Category Management (GMS & Cotton) Develop and execute the category strategy and business plan for both GMS and Cotton, encompassing sales, margin, inventory, and market share targets Conduct thorough market analysis, monitor consumer trends, and perform competitor benchmarking to identify growth opportunities Manage the end-to-end product lifecycle, including range planning, sourcing, pricing, promotion, and clearance Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to negotiate optimal terms, ensure product quality, and secure exclusive offerings Analyze sales data and KPIs to make data-driven decisions and present performance reports to senior management 2. Redemption Program Management Lead the strategy, development, and execution of the company's redemption programs Collaborate with marketing and supply chain teams to ensure successful promotion, logistics, and fulfillment of redemption items Manage the budget and profitability of redemption initiatives, analyzing their effectiveness and ROI 3. Category Development Projects Initiate and lead cross-functional projects aimed at category growth and innovation Launch new product lines, enter new sub-categories, and develop customer‑centric initiatives to enhance the shopping experience Manage project timelines, budgets, and stakeholder communication from conception to launch 4. Commercial & Own Brand Collaboration Serve as the primary liaison between the Commercial team and the Own Brand team Ensure the Own Brand product strategy is seamlessly integrated into the overall category plan, aligning with customer needs and commercial goals Collaborate on the development of new Own Brand products, providing commercial insights on pricing, positioning, and feasibility Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Economics, or a related field. An MBA is a plus Minimum of 5‑7 years of proven experience in category management, buying, or a similar strategic commercial role Essential: Demonstrated experience managing the GMS and/or Cotton categories Essential: Hands‑on experience designing and managing redemption or gift‑with‑purchase programs Proven track record of developing and executing successful category strategies that delivered on financial targets Strong experience in supplier negotiation and relationship management Experience working on Own Brand or private label development is highly desirable Strategic Thinker: Ability to see the big picture and translate strategy into actionable plans Analytical Prowess: Advanced proficiency in data analysis (Excel, PowerPoint) and using insights to drive decisions. Experience with BI tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) is a plus Commercial Acumen: Strong financial and business sense, with a focus on P&L management, margin drivers, and ROI Project Management: Excellent organizational skills with the ability to lead multiple complex projects simultaneously Influencer & Collaborator: Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to build relationships and influence stakeholders at all levels, especially in bridging gaps between teams Negotiator: A confident and effective negotiator Seniority level Mid‑Senior level Employment type Full‑time Job function Business Development and Purchasing Industries Retail #J-18808-Ljbffr