Sr. Category Strategy Manager job in Chicago at True Value

The Senior Category Strategy Manager is responsible for leading assigned department and merchandising categories in the development and implementation of assortment strategies and tactics that drive sales and margin for True Value. This role is accountable for managing the most strategic vendor relationships within the department. Assures assortment strategies are executed within the business end-to-end.

Responsibilities (May perform other duties and responsibilities, as assigned).

1.       Creates best in-class assortments that allow retailers to support their customers with the products that they need.

2.       Continuously drives improvement towards a fit and trim assortment aimed at supporting product utility, retail penetration, new product innovation, differentiation, and destination brands.

3.       Communicates and sets expectations for new and existing assortments.

4.       Leads a functional team (indirectly) of associates in the execution of assortment strategic vision. Executes corporate strategies and objectives.

5.       Creates annual sales, margin, and assortment plans; Conducts regular merchandising team updates as well as leadership presentations.

6.       Evaluates competitor’s products, programs, prices, and strategies to remain competitive in the marketplace.

7.       Selects, develops, and implements merchandise programs and products to maximize sales and profits.

8.       Visits retailers and manufacturers to gain a better understanding of products, programs, capabilities, and opportunities. Works collaboratively with the field team and specialty businesses to develop strategies.

9.       Creates competitive private brand assortments within the guidelines of the brand strategy.

10.    Strengthens vendor relationships and resolves vendor supply chain issues.

11.    Implements strategic growth plans with key strategic vendors across internal support functions.

12.    Develops a communication strategy with vendors to stay abreast of market trends. Communicates the strategy of merchandising programs with internal support functions (i.e., logistics, distribution, marketing, inventory, etc.)

13.    Collaborate with Global Sourcing to develop the best possible products and programs.

Education & Experience

•        Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent work experience.

•        8-10 years of experience, preferably in Merchandising, Marketing, Supply Chain and/or Retail.

•        Intermediate knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).

Licenses & Certifications: N/A

Physical Requirements (Delete those that do not apply and only keep those that apply to the role)

•        Balancing, Climbing, Crouching, Hearing, Kneeling, Lifting, Pulling, Pushing, Reaching, Repetitive Motion, Seeing, Sitting, Standing, Stooping, Talking, Typing, Visual Acuity, Walking

Work Environment: Generally, works in climate-controlled office environment.

Travel: Travel may vary in length and duration.