Category Head - Hardlines

Category Head Hardlines

Category Management & Business Development :

- In line with the regional strategy, develop, set and execute India strategy for the relevant category in conjunction with relevant stakeholders including plans for new business for each sub-category and franchise

- Manage the annual operating plan and quarterly forecasting process, developing licensee objectives and initiatives to drive growth, working with franchise, marketing, product development and finance

- Actively manage and cultivate the relationship engagement, partnership and joint business planning as appropriate with each licensee, new and existing

- Evaluate licensee base and drive an optimization plan to ensure effective and focused business management and strategic planning to support growth across categories

- Conduct or be involved in contract negotiations with licensees and distributors as appropriate to maximize organization's royalty revenue and appropriately inform all key stakeholders with the relevant information

- Research & understand competitive landscape. Analyze and understand market trends, consumer and retailer and industry needs.

- Work closely with the creative teams, product approvers, franchise and marketing teams to support the sale of the product as required by licensee/retailer.

Product Development :

- Work closely with the Creative team on product development strategy outlining necessary range planning, brainstorms and development.

- Collaborate with PD to innovate & bring to market compelling new products; collaborate & oversee product development strategy with focus on quality, appropriate SKU count, and feature/benefit analysis.

- Administer and coordinate licensee's product / artwork approvals with Product Development team.

Team Lead :

- Ensure company goals and objectives are being met by each team member & provide constructive feedback

- Set clear team goals and KPIs

- Create a healthy and motivating work environment and atmosphere

Finance, Business Planning & Compliances :

- Fiscal responsibility for assigned categories to include annual budget planning and quarterly revenue forecasting (setting annual AOP targets, obtaining and reviewing quarterly forecasts)

- Work closely with internal teams on following of organization's processes and compliances

- Develop initiatives with other lines of businesses and departments to maximize synergy activity and develop promotional opportunities.

Education & Training :

- University graduate, preferably Marketing or Business Commerce.

- MBA graduate

Working Experience :

- 12-15 years' work experience either in a category management role, or in sales. Ideally in a multinational environment

- Proven work experience as a team leader or supervisor

- Experience of working with SMEs and B2B businesses will be preferred

- Industry: Consumer Products, Retail, FMCG (Category Management), Consulting (Consumer Products/Retail), Telecom, Edtech, Consumer banking