Job description

• To develop and implement  a category plan for specific product ranges to ensure reduced cost of goods, optimise contract terms and increase income, assume responsibility of budget  and revenue for category.
• To negotiate favourable trading terms and promotional spend (co-op), actively cultivate, develop and maintain vendor relationships and partnerships to ensure vendor performance and first to market with new product launches.
• To maintain relationships with existing suppliers and sourcing new suppliers for future products lines.
• To implement a plan that will achieve the Clicks’ value proposition through price and promotion whilst achieving promotional sales targets.
• To translate the operating and financial plans into a balanced product assortment and visual on-shelf display to meet the customer’s needs
• To support the sourcing and development of private label products and exclusive brands thereby creating product differentiation, innovation and brand loyalty that will increase market share and profitability.
• To regularly review performance indicators, such as sales, margin and promo quantification, keeping the business updated on financial performance versus market and plan.
• To conduct range reviews, analyse consumer buying patterns, predict future trends and stay abreast with competitor activity.
• To work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders, including marketing and Clubcard to ensure effective delivery of the operating plan.
• To support both the Merchandise and Graduate Development Programme  by playing an active role in facilitating training sessions to embed sound procurement principles and commercial awareness.

Job Experience

• 4-6  years Category Management experience
• 2-3 years People Management experience
• Managing objectives
• Experience with local and global supplier networks

Education

• B Degree or Diploma in Retail, Purchasing Management or similar (Essential)