Category Manager

Job Title

Strategic, data-driven, and collaborative Category Manager owns the development and execution of category strategies that drive business growth through optimized supplier partnerships and enhanced customer satisfaction. This role requires a foundation in category strategy creation and execution, financial acumen, supplier negotiation, and cross-functional leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Category Management

• Assesses category lifecycle stages and aligns strategies accordingly.
• Identifies categories requiring resource reallocation and strategic focus.
• Collaborates with research teams to integrate insights into category planning.
• Leverages competitive pricing strategies in the market, including retail, promotional, and professional pricing strategies.
• Resolves conflicts that impact category strategy execution.
• Distinguishes product types that perform best within specific categories.
• Coaches team members on category planning to improve business outcomes.

Business Acumen – Financial Management

• Analyzes and forecasts short- and long-term financial needs for assigned categories.
• Evaluates business and investment decisions for financial impact.
• Recommends improvements to financial tools and processes.
• Interprets financial statements to assess risks and opportunities.
• Applies financial metrics to support strategic decision-making.
• Mentors others in developing financial literacy and responsibility.

Supplier Management & Negotiation

• Defines supplier value targets and selects appropriate suppliers for strategic sourcing.
• Prepares and prioritizes negotiation points using data from multiple sources.
• Leads negotiations across product categories, applying BATNA principles.
• Anticipates and counters supplier arguments effectively.
• Evaluates supplier performance data to inform future negotiations and sourcing decisions.

Visionary Thinking – Strategic Execution

• Assists in 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 and determines potential changes and shifts that impact the overall Company.
• Integrates the strategic vision into a given product category through execution of day-to-day operational goals.

Communication

• Communicates complex and sensitive topics with clarity and diplomacy.
• Fosters open dialogue and encourages idea sharing across teams.
• Provides coaching on effective communication techniques and tools.
• Actively listens to understand before responding and adapts communication styles as needed.

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Identifies the steps in the team formation process (e.g., forming, storming, norming, performing).
• Recognizes and communicates barriers to effective teamwork.
• Identifies and resolves conflicts (interpersonal) to effective teamwork by giving and seeking feedback.
• Takes initiative and provides leadership for the team even if not officially designated "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.
• Proficiency in category management tools, ERP systems, and data visualization platforms.

Company Overview: 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).

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.