EE Regional Category Manager

SUMMARY:
Are you able to provide strategic direction to the Western Cape region through effective leadership of hardware products, to facilitate effective management of Cement, Metals & Fencing, Roofing & Wet Trade categories.

You will be responsible for building strategic partnerships with key regional suppliers to deliver competitive trade terms and category market share growth in Western Cape.

POSITION INFO:
Minimum Job Requirements: Degree or Diploma in Marketing essential. Minimum 10 years’ experience in a buying\/procurement role. Minimum 5 to 10 years’ buying experience in the Hardware Retail environment. Minimum 5 years’ experience in-store retail management experience. Key Performance Areas: Report to the Regional Executive: Drive growth, monitor and drive national sales and GP% budgets. Review the range and order new product lines for new stores. Visit regional supplier factories with the Regional Category Managers to ensure the capability to provide service at a national level. Improve loyalty of retailers in conjunction with Regional teams. Develop the Category strategy and align it with the Merchandise and Group strategy, to ensure effective buying. Responsible for Regional Supplier Trade Agreements and approvals. Manage supply chain and conduct regular meetings with regional and national suppliers. Analyse performance nationally to identify opportunities and develop action plans for implementation by the Regional Category Managers. Manage all promotional deals and pricing of promotions nationally. Negotiate and achieve budgeted drop shipment and retail gross profits. Effectively launch house brand products at retail including point-of-sale and stands. Initiate regular “killer deals” to improve volumes and show leadership to retailers regarding preferred suppliers. Skills and Competencies: Outstanding supplier partnership skills and strong customer orientation. Strong presentation, negotiation and conflict resolution skills. Sound business and financial acumen. Quality orientated and self-driven to achieve results.