Junior Category Manager

Junior Category Manager | Manchester | £30,000 | Hybrid Working

As a Junior Category Manager, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the future of one of our client's flagship brands. You'll be the driving force behind profitability, overseeing everything from sales management and trading optimisations to launching new product ranges-always with a sharp eye on the competitive landscape.

Collaboration is at the heart of this role. You'll work closely with cross-functional teams in wholesale, retail, and trading to develop and execute strategic plans. Building strong relationships with designers and product sourcing teams will be key, as you'll craft clear, actionable product briefs to steer the development process.

Your expertise in sourcing will shine as you manage negotiations with suppliers, particularly in the Far East, either directly or via their China office. With a proven track record in effective sourcing, you'll ensure the delivery of high-quality products at the right price, time, and place.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct in-depth market research within the UK and European workwear sectors, uncovering opportunities to attract new business, brands, and suppliers.
• Partner with your Manager on fabric development, providing clear direction to the Asia team and setting performance benchmarks.
• Define comprehensive range requirements-price points, fabrics, fit, and construction-for design and development teams.
• Establish testing standards early in the development cycle to ensure quality and consistency.
• Provide key development and sales samples for critical meetings and marketing shoots.
• Keep product documentation up-to-date in PLM to ensure cross-functional team alignment.
• Analyze competitor ranges and pricing strategies to gain actionable market insights.
• Design product ranges that meet specific price points while introducing innovative, commercially viable solutions.
• Lead price negotiations with Asian suppliers to hit target margins.
• Ensure timely product development, aligning with the corporate calendar and working closely with the Professional Brand Manager to meet all deadlines.

BBBH32254