Long Description

Job Summary

Develop and implement the strategy and plans to drive category performance improvements in order to improve the operating results of X-cite by working with internal departments and external partners such as manufacturers & distributors by focusing on the consumer. Lead high performing teams to achieve budgeted performance.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a multichannel category strategy to achieve desired revenue, profitability and market share results
• Lead and manage category team with objective setting and regular performance appraisal
• Vendor selection and vendor strategy in line with category needs with Quarterly business reviews with appropriate vendor contacts
• Complete category profit and loss management inclusive of promotional, marketing, staffing and inventory costs as well as annual budget process + reforecasting
• Effective new product introduction to maximise revenue and negotiation of exclusives
• Develop processes to ensure the business reacts more dynamically with better data and information related to the supply chain to ensure only value-added products are placed on the shelf based on consumer demand
• Execution of promotion strategies including trade promotions, consumer promotions and consumer advertising / marketing
• Review with team + implement store assortment / ranging of products and services that are profitable and satisfy consumer needs in order to utilize store shelf space more efficiently, appeal to the consumer and eliminate out of stocks
• Work with team to maintain and analyse POS data to ensure efficient store ranging and real-time consumer preferences are gathered and acted upon in order to select and optimally place products on store shelves.
• Demand aggregation / purchase planning for the specific category and monitoring inventory targets and open to buy
• Lead the marketing direction of the category, working with team to coordinate with other categories, marketing & logistics on cross promotions and campaigns
• Develop & lead a high performance team
• Model high quality management practices and reinforce a professional work environment
• Foster a collaborative and supportive relationship between the stores, category management and head office support functions to leverage full support
• Provide mentoring and professional growth opportunities for staff

Candidate Requirements

• In-depth knowledge of and experience in managing a Consumer Electronics Category
• At least 10 years’ experience within Electronic retailing with at least 8 years Category Management experience
• Must be able to demonstrate a high level of knowledge and passion for consumer electronic goods to connect with enthusiasts
• Professional development in retail strategy / category management
• Excellent analytical skills and aptitude to draw out plans and assess accurately the market needs for the category
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong relationship building skills to maximise opportunities with suppliers
• Strong negotiation skills
• Organizational leadership skills

Education