Job Title

Overview The Dufresne Group is currently seeking a Senior Category Manager for our Dufresne Merchandising Team. This role can be located on a hybrid basis at our Home Office at 147 Commerce Drive in Winnipeg or remotely within Canada. Responsibilities Develop and implement multi-channel, multi-category strategies that drive profitable growth. Create and own strategic vendor relationships and collaborate with internal teams to develop and execute category sourcing and sales strategies delivering margins and inventory return on investment across the category. Manage and develop a team of Associate Category Managers and Category Managers. Set strategic plans for the category aligned with overall company priorities. Plan store-level product assortment by brand to drive sales and gross profit with appropriate regionalization of offerings. Develop omni-channel strategic assortment plans and merchandising direction for categories that achieve key performance metrics. Maximize return on inventory investment in partnership with the Supply Chain team, cross-functional partners and vendors (owning inventory process). Collaborate with the Marketing team on category promotional plans in stores and online. Provide product training support and tools to ensure category planning and marketing programs are executed effectively across all channels. Be an expert in the overall market with knowledge of consumer trends, innovation and competition. Deliver financial performance goals related to sales, gross margin, controllable costs and inventory flow/productivity. Review and complete weekly reporting and analysis of category performance, sales profitability, vendor lead times and inventory levels. Source products to address multi-channel category plans, engaging vendors to improve profit, sales, store and online execution, and innovation. Negotiate vendor agreements and conduct regular vendor reviews/scorecards to assess performance and identify opportunities. Set and monitor pricing to margin standards and maintain inventory safety stock levels. Support stores with product assortment needs and work with SOS stores to increase sales and SPG. Develop, coach and engage team members including Assistant/Associate Category Manager(s) and Category Manager(s). Participate in or lead key department or company initiatives (e.g., RTA, Branding Hierarchy). Attend industry-related trade shows. Qualifications As a successful candidate you will have the following : Post-secondary education in Business Administration, Marketing and/or recognized purchasing designation. A combination of education and experience will be considered. At least 5 years of work experience in a related field. Strong leadership skills with a proven track record of leading and developing teams, managing cross-functional projects and driving category strategies. Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret and leverage data to make informed decisions. Strong negotiation skills to secure favourable terms with vendors and partners. Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey ideas, present strategies and interact with stakeholders at all levels. Valid Driver's License and Passport with the ability to travel within North America as required. A Criminal Record Check will be required. Key Details Employment Type : Full-Time Experience : years Vacancy : 1 #J-18808-Ljbffr