Senior Category Manager

We are seeking a dynamic Senior Category Manager to drive the strategy, growth, and profitability for one of our clients. The role demands a strong business acumen with a deep understanding of consumer trends, product lifecycle management, pricing strategies, and vendor negotiations to deliver a compelling and profitable product assortment.

Key Responsibilities :

Category Strategy & Planning :

Develop and execute annual category strategies aligned with brand vision and business goals.

Analyze market trends, competition, and customer insights to identify growth opportunities.

Drive assortment planning across styles, price points, and customer segments to maximize sales and profitability.

Merchandising & Buying :

Lead seasonal merchandise planning and product selection in collaboration with design and sourcing teams.

Ensure optimal product mix and inventory levels across all channels (online, offline, and marketplaces).

Oversee pricing and markdown strategies to achieve margin targets and reduce ageing inventory.

Business Performance & Analytics :

Own category P&L; track performance against revenue, margin, and sell-through targets.

Monitor key KPIs : stock turns, ASP (average selling price), and contribution margins.

Prepare regular performance reports and recommend actionable insights to leadership.

Vendor Management & Sourcing :

Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors, designers, and manufacturers.

Negotiate terms for cost, timelines, and quality to drive operational excellence.

Collaboration :

Work closely with design, marketing, retail, and e-commerce teams to deliver cohesive brand experiences.

Partner with supply chain teams to ensure timely product availability and replenishment.

Key Requirements :

MBA / Graduate in Fashion, Merchandising, Business Management, or related field.

7–12 years of experience in category management, merchandising, or buying in the apparel, jewellery, or lifestyle sector .

Strong understanding of product lifecycle, pricing, and retail assortment planning.

Proven track record of managing P&L and delivering growth targets.

Strong analytical, negotiation, and vendor management skills.

Excellent communication, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration abilities.