FieldCategoryManager

**_Essential Functions:_** ## Strategic & Category Management * Support national and regional merchandising strategies through execution of local assortment plans and category initiatives. * Develop and maintain category schematics and planograms in alignment with strategic objectives. * Establish, monitor, and forecast gross margin performance, sales volume, and profitability for assigned categories. * Conduct annual category reviews, budgets, and performance analyses; recommend corrective actions as needed. ## Pricing, Promotions & Sales Growth * Own frontline and promotional pricing decisions for local assortments. * Increase sales and revenue by developing promotional concepts, overlay programs, and local assortment enhancements. * Analyze category sales, margins, and KPI performance; maintain accurate records of item cost, retail, and margin dollars. ## Vendor & Cross-Functional Collaboration * Manage local vendor relationships, including negotiating cost, terms, and product offerings. * Maintain strong relationships with local and national vendors by providing guidance, resolving concerns, and sharing business insights. * Partner with operations, merchandising, and business unit teams to ensure successful execution of category initiatives. ## Operational Execution & Reporting * Manage planogram implementation, store resets, and operational execution. * Produce and maintain actionable operational reporting, including out-of-stocks, zero sales, delivery frequency, and related metrics. * Allocate and track program costs; prepare operational and risk reports aligned with national and regional merchandising priorities. ## Testing, Pilots & Continuous Improvement * Support pilot programs and product testing, including preparation and delivery of communication materials. * Track results, analyze feedback, and report findings to appropriate teams. * Recommend changes based on performance results and competitive trends. ## Performance & Professional Development * Achie