Category Manager

Let's get to know each other
At Fantastic Furniture, we believe that people are our superpower. As a leading Australian furniture retailer, we're committed to creating an engaging and supportive work environment that drives our success. When you join us, you are joining a fun (yes, be prepared for a dress up or two), authentic and passionate team that are committed to being learners, collaborators and change makers.
Are you a seasoned retail professional with a passion for furniture design and sourcing? Do you thrive in a dynamic environment where innovation meets execution? Fantastic Furniture is seeking a skilled and strategic Category Manager - Lounge and Occasional to lead our efforts in developing and sourcing furniture that meets our customers' needs and drives business success.
**About the Role**:
As the Category Manager for Lounge and Occasional, you will spearhead the design, development, and sourcing of our furniture collections. You'll be responsible for building and executing the assortment strategy, nurturing supplier relationships, and ensuring our new products are of exceptional value, design, and quality to delight our customers.
**Key Responsibilities**:

- Product Strategy: Develop and implement the assortment strategy for Lounge and Occasional categories. Ensure product introductions align with customer needs and business objectives.
- Supplier Relations: Build and maintain strong partnerships with local and international suppliers. Negotiate pricing and contract terms to secure the best value.
- Product Quality: Oversee product design and manufacturing to ensure it meets our quality and safety standards. Working closely with our QC team locally and overseas.
- Market Insight: Conduct market research to stay abreast of industry trends, product availability, and pricing.
- Operational Excellence: Work with the team to monitor and analyse inventory levels, develop pricing strategies, and ensure stores are stocked with products that drive profitable sales.
- Team Leadership: Lead and develop a Trainee Buyer, fostering a high-engagement, high-performance team environment.

**Who You Are**:

- Experience: Minimum of 8-10 years in a retail buying role, with a strong background in product development. Experience in lounge or upholstery buying is highly desirable.
- Education: Ideally a Bachelor's degree required; a qualification in retail is a plus.
- Skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a knack for data-driven decision-making.
- Traits: Exceptional communication and collaboration skills, high attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

Why it's fantastic to join us
- Learn and Grow We believe in continuous learning and this role will provide you with the opportunity to gain valuable skills along with excellent development opportunities that will benefit you throughout your career.
- Welcoming teams: We work together to make a positive difference in our customer's lives at home. You'll be part of an inclusive, fun and supportive team culture.
- Stay safe and healthy: Your well-being matters to us. We offer a range of health and wellness programs to help you stay at your best, both physically and mentally, including discounts on health insurances.
- Our products in your home: Enjoy exclusive discounts on our Fantastic Furniture products. We believe in sharing the perks with our team and making your home even more fabulous.
- Blend work and life: We work with our teams to make sure we can both support them, as well as offer the opportunity to stay connected to their teams.
- Building Careers: We're committed to your growth. Career opportunities can lead you into leadership roles or you can build your skills across departments.
- Free onsite parking: We have loads of free parking available
- Snacks: Who doesn't love a great choice of healthy snacks to munch on - our support office kitchen is always buzzing and well - stocked

To join our team, please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you're the perfect fit for this role.
Fantastic Furniture is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Fantastic Furniture is a 2023 Circle Back Initiative Employer - that means, we commit to responding to every applicant. We look forward to hearing from you
Elevate your career with Fantastic Furniture—where your expertise in category management helps shape the future of our product offerings and customer experiences.