Strategic, data-driven, and collaborative Category Managerownsthe development and execution of category strategies that drive business growththroughoptimizedsupplierpartnershipsand enhancedcustomer satisfaction. This role requires a foundation in categorystrategy creationand execution, financial acumen, supplier negotiation, and cross-functional leadership.
Key Responsibilities:
Category Management
Assessescategory lifecycle stages and alignsstrategies accordingly.
Identifiescategories requiring resource reallocation and strategic focus
Collaborateswith research teams to integrate insights into category planning
Leveragescompetitive pricingstrategiesin the market,including retail, promotional, and professional pricing strategies
Resolvesconflicts thatimpactcategory strategy execution.
Distinguishesproduct types that perform best within specific categories.
Coachesteam members on category planning to improve business outcomes.
Business Acumen – Financial Management
Analyzesand forecastsshort- and long-term financial needs for assigned categories.
Evaluatesbusiness and investment decisions forfinancial impact
Recommendsimprovements to financial tools and processes.
Interpretsfinancial statements to assess risks and opportunities.
Appliesfinancial metrics to support strategic decision-making.
Mentorsothers in developing financial literacy and responsibility.
Supplier Management & Negotiation
Definessupplier value targets and selectsappropriate suppliersfor strategic sourcing.
Preparesand prioritizesnegotiation points using data from multiple sources.
Leadsnegotiations across product categories, applying BATNA principles.
Anticipatesand counterssupplier arguments effectively.
Evaluatessupplier performance data to inform future negotiations and sourcing decisions.
Visionary Thinking – Strategic Execution
Assistsin the creation of implementation plans for the vision
Applies information from the business and industry to formulate potential
product category strategies
Analyzes customer base for a given product category anddeterminespotential changes and shifts thatimpactthe overall Company
Integrates the strategic vision into a given product category throughexecution of day-to-day operational goals
Communication
Communicatescomplex and sensitive topics with clarity and diplomacy.
Fostersopen dialogue and encouragesidea sharing across teams.
Providescoaching on effective communication techniques and tools.
Actively listensto understand before responding andadaptcommunication styles as needed.
Cross-Functional Leadership
Identifiesthestepsintheteamformationprocess(e.g.,forming,storming,norming,performing)
Recognizesandcommunicatesbarriers toeffectiveteamwork
Identifies andresolvesconflicts(interpersonal) toeffectiveteamworkby giving and seeking feedback.
Takes initiative and provides leadership for the team even if not officiallydesignated"leader"
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, Finance, or related field.
8+ years of experience in category management, strategic sourcing, or procurement.
Strong analytical and financial modeling skills.
Proven experience in supplier negotiations and performance management.
Excellent communication, leadership, and coaching abilities.
Proficiencyin category management tools, ERP systems, and data visualization platforms.
Advance Auto Parts, Inc. is a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider that serves both professional installers and do-it-yourself customers. Advance operates 4,500+ stores and distribution centers in the United States, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Company also serves independently owned CarQuest branded stores across these locations in addition to Mexico and various Caribbean Islands. When you join our team, you become one of 60,000 knowledgeable and experienced Team Members who are committed to providing outstanding customer service to our customers, communities, and each other every day.
Location & Work Availability:
This position is 4 days in office, 1 day remote per week, based at our corporate headquarters in Raleigh, North Carolina (North Hills)
Benefits Summary:
We believe in supporting our Team Members and those they love through comprehensive health & wellness benefits. Learn more here: https://jobs.advanceautoparts.com/us/en/benefits
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local protected class.
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We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class. We comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.
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Advance Auto Parts, Inc. is a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider that serves both professional installers and do-it-yourself customers. As of October 5, 2024, Advance operated 4,781 stores primarily within the United States, with additional locations in Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The company also served 1,125 independently owned Carquest branded stores across these locations in addition to Mexico and various Caribbean islands. Additional information about Advance, including employment opportunities, customer services and online shopping for parts, accessories and other offerings can be found at www.AdvanceAutoParts.com.
