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About the Role

The Category Manager is responsible for managing a specific group of products within a fashion retail business, overseeing the product lifecycle from selection to pricing and performance analysis to maximize sales, profitability, and market share. This role collaborates closely with planning, design, marketing, supply chain, and retail teams to ensure the assortment aligns with brand strategy, seasonal trends, and customer demand.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement seasonal category strategies based on customer insights, sales performance, trend forecasts, and business goals.
Partner with the Planning team to build plans and manage monthly forecasts.
Set and manage category KPIs including sales, margin, turnover, and inventory.
Curate the product mix for the assigned department, balancing core, seasonal, and trend-led items.
Work with design and QA teams to influence product development and ensure quality and fit standards.
Prepare and deliver quarterly product presentations to the executive team.
Review the vendor base yearly and recommend actions.
Ensure the critical path is followed for timely product delivery.
Manage supplier relationships, negotiate cost prices, payment terms, and delivery schedules.
Conduct seasonal range reviews and ensure compliance with brand quality and sustainability standards.
Develop pricing strategies that align with margin targets and competitive positioning.
Plan and execute promotional activities in partnership with marketing and retail teams.
Analyze sales data, customer behavior, and market trends to inform buying decisions.
Provide weekly and seasonal performance reports with actionable recommendations.
Coach and develop Assistant Buyers.
Contribute positively to the company culture.
Partner with retail operations to ensure optimum POS merchandise presentation and selling strategies.
Partner with marketing on product storytelling, visual merchandising, and digital content.

Requirements

5+ years of experience in fashion buying and/or category management.
Undergraduate degree in business, fashion management, or a related field of study preferred.
Strong negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
Sound analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
Proficient with Windows applications (Excel, Word) and retail planning systems.
Excellent understanding of sourcing, construction, quality assurance, and fabrications.
Strong vendor relations and ability to grow and develop new vendors.
Ability to work and communicate positively with cross-functional teams.
A team player who is accountable, adaptable to changing parameters, has a drive for results attitude, and values working in a collaborative environment.

Experience Level

5+ years

Education Level

Undergraduate degree in business, fashion management, or a related field of study preferred