Assistant Category Manager, Scholastic Dollars Program

Scholastic

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Assistant Category Manager supports the execution and optimization of category strategies by leveraging data, managing key operational processes, and driving cross-functional initiatives. This role is responsible for maintaining accurate and actionable data, supporting e-commerce readiness, and contributing to special projects that enhance category performance. Working closely with the Senior Category Manager or Director, the Assistant Category Manager plays a critical role in translating strategic direction into execution, ensuring alignment across merchandising, marketing, and supply chain functions.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or a minimum of three (3) years of equivalent professional experience required
• Proficiency in Google Workspace and Microsoft Office applications
• Demonstrated analytical capabilities with experience in data management and database maintenance
• Strong organizational, time management, and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
• Exceptional attention to detail with a high degree of accuracy in work output
• Excellent written communication skills, including grammar, editing, and proofreading proficiency
• Self-motivated with the ability to operate independently and effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment (remote or in-office)

Nice To Haves

• Intermediate to advanced skills in Microsoft Excel strongly preferred
• Prior experience in Category Management, retail buying, or merchandising is preferred
• Familiarity with and enthusiasm for books and publishing strongly preferred

Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain category data integrity across systems, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and timely updates, including (but not limited to): item descriptions, images, online search keywords, supplemental data, and starred reviews
• Monitor category performance and prepare regular reporting and insights for leadership review
• Analyze sales, margin, and market data—including Scholastic Dollars performance, publishing industry trends, and children’s market insights—to support category strategy development and identify opportunities for growth
• Execute category strategies as directed by the Senior Category Manager or Director, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives
• Participate in book selection under the guidance of the Senior Category Manager or Director by reading, reviewing, recommending and curated books and book collections for use in the Scholastic Dollars Catalog
• Collaborate cross-functionally with merchandising, marketing, inventory planning, and operations teams to ensure seamless execution of category initiatives
• Support special projects, including new product launches, assortment expansions, and process improvements
• Help to identify and implement process improvements to drive efficiency and effectiveness within the category
• Assist in reviewing and proofing all print marketing materials
• Provide e-commerce data support, including item setup, content accuracy, and optimization to enhance online performance
• Manage the proofing process of monthly new releases to ensure accuracy in product details

Benefits

• Benefit plans designed to be in line with market conditions and employee needs
• Plans provide flexibility and allow individuals a broad range of choices that can be tailored to meet each employee's needs
• Compensation
• Tuition aid
• Company-sponsored training
• Social and recreational programs
• Pay Transparency

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees