Category Manager

**Are you ready to take your career to the next level? Join WHSmith Australia as a Category Manager, where you'll lead and mentor a high performing team, shape innovative category strategies, and drive growth in sales and profit**
- Lead and execute category strategies for our market leading brand with a global presence
- Work alongside cross functional teams to drive innovation, leveraging market trends and insights
- Join a supportive and inclusive team and workplace

**About WHSmith Australia**

WHSmith is a historic British retailer focusing on news, books, and convenience, and we are proud to bring our expertise to our Australian operations. Our stores are located in some of the busiest and most exciting airports and hospitals in the country, providing a dynamic and fast-paced work environment that is perfect for driven individuals who thrive on a challenge.

Our office is conveniently based in Woolloomooloo (close to public transport) and we offer 2 days WFH.

**About the Position**

In this role, you’ll lead the General Merchandise buying team across our store network and support office. You’ll develop and implement sourcing strategies, working closely with internal and external stakeholders to secure the best products at the best prices.

**Your responsibilities will include**:

- Formulate and implement category plans that align with business objectives, focusing on sales, profit, and customer satisfaction
- Mentor and coach the Buyers and Buyers Assistants
- Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, negotiate contracts, income and ensure optimal pricing and terms
- Optimise existing processes and develop new ways of working to deliver efficiencies and time-savings within the buying team and wider business
- Curate product assortments based on customer preferences, market trends, and business priorities
- Monitor category performance, analyse data, and identify opportunities for improvement in sales, inventory levels, and profit margins
- Work closely with marketing, operations, and Buyers to develop promotional plans, pricing strategies, and in-store merchandising initiatives.
- Utilise customer insights and feedback to enhance the shopping experience and ensure the category meets customer expectations
- Proven experience in category management, merchandising, or a related role within a retail environment
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make informed decisions
- Excellent negotiation and communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to analyse data and metrics
- Experience of implementing change to processes and ways of working
- Influential leadership skills
- Creative and innovative mindset with a passion for continuous growth

**Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion