Category Manager - Sports 20J25

A Category Manager in Sports is a pivotal role within the retail and merchandising sectors, with a focus on managing product categories to enhance sales and profitability. This position requires a strategic thinker who can analyze market trends, understand consumer needs, and develop category plans to drive business growth in the sports sector. The Category Manager will work closely with cross-functional teams including procurement, marketing, and sales to curate a compelling assortment of sports products. Moreover, they are responsible for vendor management and negotiations, ensuring optimal product placement and inventory management. This role demands continuous learning and adaptation to new market dynamics to remain competitive, and an enthusiasm for sports is a definite plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category strategies to drive sales and profitability in sports.
• Conduct comprehensive market analysis to stay abreast of industry trends and competitor activities.
• Collaborate with procurement teams to source and select the most viable sports products.
• Manage vendor relationships and negotiate terms to ensure advantageous contracts and partnerships.
• Liaise with marketing teams to support the promotion and visibility of sports categories.
• Analyze sales data to determine product success and inform future category strategies.
• Manage inventory levels to reduce excess stock and ensure product availability.
• Develop pricing strategies to maximize profitability and market competitiveness.
• Support the creation of product assortments that meet consumer needs and preferences.
• Oversee the performance of sports categories and adjust strategies to meet business goals.
• Lead cross-functional projects to launch new product lines or category enhancements.
• Provide leadership and guidance to junior team members on category management best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field; MBA preferred.
• Proven experience in category management, merchandising, or a similar role, especially in sports.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and market trends.
• Excellent negotiation skills and experience in vendor management and contract negotiation.
• Proficient in using a variety of business and analytical tools, including Excel and ERP systems.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with internal and external partners.
• Passion for sports and a strong understanding of sports industry dynamics and consumer behavior.