- Develop the category strategy (business plan) annually and review quarterly, aligning with overall strategic objectives.

- Prepare the annual category budget with Finance input and manage the category's financial performance.

- Ensure fair, consistent, and competitive pricing on all merchandise within the category.

- Achieve category Sales and Gross Profit Budgets.

- Provide monthly reporting and ad hoc reviews of category financial performance to key stakeholders.

- Conduct monthly financial planning and forecasting for the category.

- Analyze and monitor market activities, identifying potential threats and opportunities for the category.

- Identify and source new products and suppliers from both India and overseas. Consolidate the number of suppliers for existing products where commercially appropriate, ensuring quality and competitive pricing.

- Evaluate products to be ranged and deleted based on performance, market trends, and customer demand.

- Negotiate and set up buyer contracts and negotiate promotional plans and rebates with suppliers.

- Ensure all deadlines are met for the category in all areas, including product launches, promotions, and reporting.

- Manage the launch of new products into the market to ensure first-to-market for all critical new lines.

- Conduct regular range reviews to optimize product assortment and maximize sales.

- Work with the buying team to develop item-level and promotional forecasting.

- Manage the open-to-buy (OTB) for the category, ensuring efficient inventory management.

- Update and adjust store and promotional models based on performance data and market trends.

- Respond to customer complaints regarding category products, working to resolve issues and improve customer satisfaction.

- Select products to be promoted in conjunction with the buying team.

- Prepare advertising submissions and attend relevant meetings to brief the advertising agency on category promotions.

- Check advertised offers to ensure adequate stock to cover promotional demand.

- Analyze the effectiveness of promotions and make recommendations for future improvements.

- Ensure Buying processes and policies are implemented with regard to pricing, recalling of stock, advertising, and the introduction of new lines.

Required Skills:

- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly and concisely.

- Strong negotiation skills with a proven track record of securing favorable terms with suppliers.

- Accurate numerical and analytical skills with the ability to interpret data effectively.

- Strong analytical ability to synthesize information into actionable objectives, planning, and outcomes.

- Good fundamental understanding of analytical & communication tools (e.g., Excel, data visualization software).

- Ability to generate actionable recommendations for diverse stakeholders.

- Capable of managing complex project management tasks effectively.

- Data-driven thinking focused on using data for decision-making.

- Highly creative approach to problem-solving in category management.

- Strong collaborative & growth mindset for effective teamwork.

- Strong people management skills with an ability to lead a team.