Category Manager

Overview

This is your opportunity to step into a high-impact role where you'll drive growth, shape ranges, and deliver results that customers see and feel every day.

Base pay range

A$120,000.00/yr - A$145,000.00/yr

Direct message the job poster from People Equity

Managing Director/Owner - (Executive Search, Recruitment & Strategic Sourcing) - Retail, Consumer, FMCG & Services

About the Company

This is no ordinary retailer. With decades of history and a reputation built on trust, innovation, and quality, this brand has become part of the fabric of Australian homes. From families looking for everyday essentials to customers seeking unique solutions, millions turn to this household name year after year.

Backed by a strong national footprint, the business combines the stability of an iconic brand with the dynamism of modern retail. It's a place where tradition meets transformation — where new ideas are encouraged, innovation is celebrated, and customers are always at the heart of every decision.

Here, you won't just be managing a category. You'll be shaping how Australians shop, live, and enjoy products they know and love.

Why You'll Want This Role

As you get to "Own It. Grow It. Make It Yours." You'll be the mastermind behind a diverse product range — balancing customer needs, supplier partnerships, and strategic growth.

Responsibilities

• Take end-to-end ownership of a category that's core to the customer experience.
• Shape product ranges that balance innovation, profitability, and market trends.
• Partner with suppliers to secure exclusive deals and new-to-market opportunities.
• See your strategies come to life in national campaigns, promotions, and in-store execution.
• Work closely with stores to drive sales and create customer buzz.

What You'll Be Doing

• Driving sales, profit, and growth targets across your category.
• Developing and executing long-term category strategies that deliver results.
• Managing product ranges — from rationalisation to new product development.
• Negotiating competitive terms and promotional support with key suppliers.
• Leading the planning and delivery of engaging marketing campaigns.
• Coaching stores on how to maximise sales, merchandising, and customer attachments.
• Showcasing new ranges at national conferences and industry expos

What You'll Bring

• 5+ years' experience in Category Management, Buying, or Merchandise roles.
• A background in General Merchandise, Homewares, or related retail categories (highly desirable).
• Proven ability to deliver commercial outcomes — sales, margin, and income targets.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• A commercial mindset with advanced financial and analytical ability.
• Experience in product standards, warranties, and consumer law (advantageous).
• Communication and influencing skills that get results with suppliers, stores, and internal teams

What's in it for You?

• Influence at scale – shape a critical category that drives nationwide sales and customer loyalty.
• Be rewarded – competitive salary package plus the satisfaction of seeing your strategies come alive in stores.
• Thrive in culture – join a collaborative, forward-thinking team that values fresh ideas and bold thinking.

This is more than a Category Manager role — it's a chance to be the driving force behind a category that touches the lives of Australians every single day. If you're ready to lead, innovate, and grow, we'd love to hear from you.

APPLY today — or contact Gabby Symons, MD, People Equity for any additional questions - or

Employment details

• Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Product Management, Marketing, and Project Management
• Industries: Retail, Retail Office Supplies and Gifts, and Wholesale

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