Assistant Category

Join PetO's Next Chapter

Be part of the pack at PetO, Australia's largest independent dog & cat retailer, as we celebrate the successful completion of our biggest growth leap yet

Over the past 18 years, PetO has grown from a single store on Sydney's northern beaches into a much-loved national household name. Following last year's acquisition of 41 new stores and 25 co-located vet clinics, we've seamlessly integrated our expanded family and are thriving nationally.

Now operating 58 stores across Australia, we're more passionate than ever about pets, people, and delivering exceptional value. With a strong foundation and exciting opportunities ahead, there's never been a better time to join PetO and help us lead the future of the pet industry

The Role:

As the Assistant Category & Merchandise Manager, you will support our General Manager of Product across all dog & cat category functions within the business. This pivotal position provides essential support on purchasing, pricing and promotional strategies that drive retail revenue and margin achievement. Collaborating closely with the Marketing, Supply Chain and Operations teams, the role supports the development and execution of actionable plans that maintain profitability in line with our strategic goals.

Responsibilities include:

• Lead the end-to-end management of all dog and cat product categories, from reviewing ranges, pricing, and category optimisation to coordinating new product submissions; while building strong supplier partnerships that deliver better products, smarter solutions, and improved cost efficiencies.
• Analyse category performance and strategic projects, delivering insights and recommendations that enhance customer experience, commercial outcomes, and store operational productivity.
• Owning the promotional pricing execution and communication across the team, in line with the promotional strategy, including ensuring accuracy in the system.
• Playing a key role in driving product innovation and development of private label.

What's on Offer?

• A newly created role with the opportunity to shape the future of a growing national brand.
• Competitive remuneration package & Staff discount across the network
• Hybrid working arrangement available
• Pet friendly office
• Unlimited snacks and coffee bar
• Ideal location accessible by public transport and surrounded with parks and great cafes
• Career growth opportunities as we continue on our successful journey
• Be part of a passionate, high-energy team with a love for pets and a strong commitment to community.
• A collaborative work environment where your ideas and expertise will drive meaningful results.
• Work closely with industry experts and other key stakeholders across the business.

About You

You're a procurement professional with:

• 3-5 years in a procurement analyst or assistant role within Retail or FMCG
• Proven ability to manage product category end to end in specialty retail
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to turn data into actionable insights
• Proficiency in Excel and Power BI
• A knack for connecting with all kinds of people and turning conversations into great collaborations.
• A passion for pets and a customer-first mindset
• Enthusiasm and energy to match the fun vibrant culture of PetO.

Applications

Ready to make an impact in this exciting new role? Click "Apply Now" and join a cover letter explaining why this role and the pet industry is of interest to you.

If you would like to have a confidential conversation about a career at PetO contact Laura, Talent Acquisition Lead

Career Innovations is part of the PetO family, not a recruitment agency — this role is a direct hire with us.