Product / Category Manager

Job Purpose 

• To lead the sales and purchasing process and strategy for the specific product categories assigned. 
• To optimize profit generation for the specific product lines to meet business objectives.  
• Achieve optimum stock positions based on supplier terms and stock movement.  
• Work closely with all sales channels to drive the revenue budgets for each channel. 
• Ensure quality after sales service and supplier compensation in line with actual costs incurred.  
• Track the brand contracts and ensure claims are done on time delivering the brand P&L profit 

Job Responsibility and Accountability 

• Drive achievement of key financial metrics, including Gross Contribution, Quantity Sales, Stock Turn Ratio, and Aged Inventory. 
• Facilitate seamless communication and interaction internally (with respective departments) and externally (suppliers and customers)  
• Key focus on Data utilization, analysis, preparation and financial thumbprint on all negotiations and projects/activities. 
• Quarterly Range rationalization reviews ensuring products meet the minimum GP for each sub-category.  
• Monthly market intelligence analysis and engagement with the modern trade department – key action points and deliverables agreed and tracked monthly.  
• Ensure clear contracts and SLAs are in place for all suppliers – imports as well as local purchases. 
• Claims and rebates – monthly tracking and system automation. 
• Improve Product manager capability through guiding, mentoring and training.  
• Optimize departmental support through internal benchmarks and technical preparation – training handouts, technical spec sheets, price charts etc 
• Lead internal projects and tasks through teamwork, guiding, and mentoring. 

Qualification 

• Minimum qualification of a degree in business or any other relevant field. 

Experience 

• Previous experience in purchasing across international markets, preferably within a similar industry, will be considered an added advantage. 
• Extensive knowledge of category management, forecasting, and strategic planning. 
• Extensive knowledge of the retail market sector and consumer electronic products. 
• Understanding market trends and mapping. 
• Extensive financial & supply chain knowledge. 
• Knowledge of preparation of budgets 
• Track record of effective strategy execution. 
• Track record negotiating with suppliers  

Key Skills: 

• Leadership skills 
• Planning and forecasting skills. 
• Data analysis skills 
• Problem solving skills. 
• Ability to prioritize and timely execution 
• Report writing and presentation skills. 
• Budget management skills. 
• Market mapping – trends, segmenting and tracking 
• Ability to understand product and train 
• Identifying and sourcing products based on market trends and requirements 
• Relationship building skills