A category manager manages a specific product category, coordinating functions such as purchasing, inventory, sales, and marketing. They analyze profit margins, compile data, and promote products to customers. They also work with suppliers and customers, analyze sales trends, and oversee product promotion and competition. They work a standard 40-hour week but may work additional hours and travel frequently.
A category manager is hired by a company to focus on managing a specific category of products. Managing a product involves purchasing the resources needed to produce the product, dealing with the company’s current inventory levels, and working with the sales and marketing team to promote the product and set prices. The job involves analyzing profit margins, compiling and presenting data to management and other departments, and promoting products to customers.
Many different people and functions are involved in the production of a specific product, from its creation until it is in the hands of a consumer. All public relations, advertising, inventory specialists, marketing and retailers participate in a product’s success. The category manager’s job is to coordinate all these functions, making them all work for the success of the product and the company.
The category manager is responsible for contacting and managing product buyers and suppliers. Inventory and security of production supplies are his responsibility. Pricing is determined in part by your analysis of sales trends, competitors and buying habitats. Sales data is compiled and presented to management, along with recommendations for product changes and improvement.
Understanding sales trends and future purchasing needs is a critical responsibility of category managers. For example, a particular product may have seasonal trends or increased interest resulting from media exposure. Promotion of a product, including storefront displays, packaging, and advertising, are other areas overseen by a category manager. Managers work with the marketing department to split test and commercial packages to increase profits and grow the customer base. They also keep an eye on the competition, noting what works and what doesn’t, making sure their own product stays current on new trends and advances.
Most category managers work a standard 40-hour work week, although they may often work additional hours to meet deadlines and handle their workload. Travel can happen frequently because managers have to work with suppliers and customers face-to-face. Customer service and people skills are used in the day-to-day responsibilities of a category manager.
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