Category Manager

SRS Distribution•Santa Ana, CA

19d•$85,100 - $112,700•Hybrid

About The Position

The Category Manager at SRS Building Products plays a pivotal role in driving strategic growth and profitability within assigned product categories, aligning efforts with the company's overarching business objectives. This position is responsible for leveraging comprehensive industry insights and advanced data analytics to optimize product assortments, enhance supplier partnerships, and realize financial targets, ensuring that all initiatives are executed seamlessly in collaboration with cross-functional teams. With a strong emphasis on leadership, analytical acumen, and exceptional negotiation skills, the Category Manager will cultivate a high-performance culture focused on continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Supply Chain, or a related field is required; MBA is preferred.
A minimum of 5-7 years of professional experience in category management, procurement, or a directly related field within the building materials industry or a comparable sector.
Demonstrated track record of successfully developing and implementing category strategies that result in measurable growth and profitability.
Advanced analytical skills with the capacity to translate complex data into actionable insights and strategic recommendations.
Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to influence and collaborate effectively at all organizational levels.
Proficiency in utilizing category management software, data analytics tools, and the Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Ability to manage multiple high-impact projects concurrently, demonstrating exceptional initiative, organizational skills, and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

Advanced understanding of supply chain optimization and inventory management in the building materials sector.
Experience with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and customer relationship management (CRM) platforms to support efficient category management processes.
Prior experience in leading transformational initiatives or process improvements within a product management or procurement function.
Demonstrated expertise in leveraging digital technology trends to enhance product visibility and customer reach.
Strong project management skills with recognized certification (such as PMP or Six Sigma Black Belt) being considered an advantage.
Proven track record in building and maintaining strategic partnerships with diverse suppliers to foster innovation and competitive advantage.
Effective stakeholder engagement skills with the capability to present complex data and strategies succinctly to C-level executives and other high-level stakeholders.
Experience in international product sourcing and an understanding of global market dynamics and regulatory requirements.
Commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment and promoting diverse perspectives within team operations.
Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)
Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)
Category Management Association (CMA) certification

Responsibilities

Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies that align with overall business objectives, focusing on driving profitable growth and market share expansion within assigned categories.
Conduct detailed analysis of market trends and competitor strategies to identify opportunities for product innovation, differentiation, and category expansion.
Lead cross-functional teams in executing category management initiatives, ensuring timely and effective implementation to achieve desired business outcomes.
Establish and maintain strategic relationships with key suppliers to negotiate advantageous terms, enhance product offerings, and drive cost efficiencies.
Collaborate with internal sales, marketing, and operations teams to devise and deploy promotional strategies that boost category performance and enhance customer engagement.
Leverage advanced data analytics to evaluate category performance, generating actionable insights to guide strategic decision-making and continuous improvement.
Prepare and deliver clear, insightful presentations to senior leadership, emphasizing category performance, achievements, and future strategic plans.
Promote a culture of excellence and collaboration within the category management team, fostering continuous learning and development to enhance team capabilities.