Direct Associate Category Manager - Camping Travel
General Description
The principal purpose of this position is the execution of category as it pertains specifically to the direct channel. Primary responsibilities include everyday interaction with creative to facilitate product placement and merchandising for each catalog and internet pod production, providing competitive analysis, and direct advertising. This position is responsible for the execution of the direct life cycle of a product such as unplanned inventory, under-performing products, calendar management, and direct trends.
Essential Activities & Responsibilities
- Responsible for building catalog presentations (layouts), proofing Internet PODs, providing item spec and copy information.
- Supports the development of the product assortment for Direct channel merchandise to support the assortment strategy goals. Supports the development and executes the assortment strategy for the Direct channels.
- Supports the execution of the private label and branded merchandise product development to support Direct channels financial goals.
- Manages the Catalog and Internet product life cycle.
- Performs the category level analysis of product performance in the Direct channels for use in the weekly and monthly performance reviews (OTB), with reports from Planning/Inv.
- Assists in negotiating purchases, based on input from Planning and Inventory, in the appropriate quantities for the correct location to achieve financial objectives.
- Conducts competitive analysis on catalogs, mailers, email campaigns, websites, pricing strategy, product offering, etc.
- Responsible for preparing and conducting category line reviews for Direct channels assortment.
Education & Experience
- Bachelors Degree plus one to three years relevant experience.
- Specialized knowledge and experience in Direct Merchandising and Sales, Inventory Control/Planning, and Marketing as it pertains to direct advertising.
- Advanced knowledge in the following computer programs: Microsoft Word and Excel, AS400, JDA, and Kodiak.