Project Manager - Merchandising

Responsibilities Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of merchandising initiatives to support the Category Management strategy and implementation roadmap. Drive end‑to‑end delivery of assortment changes, supplier transitions, new product launches, and process improvements across the nationwide branch and distribution centre network, ensuring consistency, scalability, and minimal disruption to field operations. Balance hands‑on project leadership with accountability for project planning, execution, and outcomes. Define, standardise and maintain category workflows, operating processes and documentation to enable repeatable, scalable execution. Lead end‑to‑end planning and execution of cross‑functional Category Management initiatives, including new product introductions, assortment changes, supplier transitions, category resets, and branch‑level implementation projects. Ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, on budget, and with minimal defects. Manage branch‑level transitions, including item exits, new item introductions, space optimisation and innovation pilots. Proactively identify risks, develop mitigation strategies and minimise disruption to branch showrooms and warehouse operations. Develop and maintain standardised plans, communication vehicles and execution instructions for merchandising changes, including placement guidance and supporting materials to ensure consistent rollout across the branch network. Coordinate space planning and new concept development in partnership with internal teams, Category Management and key suppliers. Translate assortments and strategies into branch‑specific planograms that meet White Cap’s merchandising standards. Support the creation and maintenance of consistent, repeatable approaches for executing assortment and supplier changes across the branch and DC network. Build strong relationships with the field organisation and drive continuous improvement by applying merchandising best practices to enhance execution quality, scalability and performance of all showroom sets. Consult with senior management on solution development for complex strategic and technical business issues and act as a strategic advisor, using expert skills to contribute to the development of strategic company objectives. Guide and mentor staff at all levels, provide advice to senior management on complex and strategic issues, and may lead or manage complex projects with dotted‑line responsibility. Work Environment Located in a comfortable indoor area. The job may require frequent movement and opportunities to move about; light lifting may be required. Overnight travel less than 10% of the time. Education and Experience BS/BA in a related discipline is typically required. MS/MA is also acceptable if accompanied by 2–4 years of related experience. Generally 2–5 years of experience in a related field (or 2–4 years with a graduate degree). Certification may be required in some areas. Preferred Qualifications Proven experience supporting merchandising planning and execution roles across large nationwide retailers or distributors. Demonstrated track record of building processes, managing cross‑functional projects and driving execution with field/branch teams. Experience building strong cross‑departmental relationships and applying merchandising best practices to enhance execution quality and scalability. Strong critical thinking, problem‑solving, analytical skills and the ability to adapt to an ever‑changing environment. Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across multiple departments. Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office (Excel required; Visio and Smartsheet a plus) and project management tools. Experience with Space Planning by Blue Yonder. Experience with IKB or Macro Space Planning is a plus. #J-18808-Ljbffr