Product Category Specialist

Role & responsibilities

The Product Category Specialist is responsible for managing, optimizing, and growing assigned product categories. This role combines market analysis, product lifecycle management, supplier coordination, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure category profitability, competitiveness, and alignment with customer needs.

Key Responsibilities:

Category Management

Own and manage assigned product categories end-to-end.

Develop and execute category strategies aligned with business goals.

Monitor category performance (sales, margin, inventory, assortment).

Product & Assortment Planning:

Analyze customer needs, market trends, and competitor offerings.

Optimize product assortment, pricing, and positioning.

Manage product lifecycle including launches, updates, and phase-outs.

Collaborate with sales, marketing, supply chain, and merchandising teams.

Support marketing campaigns, promotions, and product launches.

Data & Performance Analysis:

Use data insights to recommend improvements and growth opportunities.

Prepare category reports and presentations for leadership.

Operational Excellence:

Ensure accurate product data, specifications, and documentation.

Support forecasting, demand planning, and inventory optimization.

Ensure compliance with quality, regulatory, and company standards.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, or related field.

2–5 years of experience in category management, product management, or merchandising.

Strong analytical skills with experience using Excel, BI tools, or dashboards.

Understanding of market research, pricing strategies, and product lifecycle.

Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

Experience in retail, e-commerce, FMCG, or relevant industry.

Familiarity with ERP, PIM, or inventory management systems.

Ability to manage multiple products and priorities simultaneously.

Commercial mindset with strong problem-solving skills.