Assistant Category Manager

Assistant Category ManagerThe Assistant Category Manager supports the development and execution of category strategies that drive profitable growth, customer satisfaction, and market competitiveness within the Performance Solutions portfolio. This role collaborates with sales, marketing, supply chain, finance, operations, and supplier partners to support product lifecycle management, portfolio optimization, pricing initiatives, and market analysis. The ideal candidate is analytical, customer-focused, and able to translate market insights into actionable recommendations that support business objectives and category performance.Key ResponsibilitiesCategory Strategy and Portfolio ManagementSupport the development and execution of category plans aligned with business growth objectives.Assist with product introductions, line extensions, rationalization initiatives, and lifecycle planning.Monitor category performance and identify opportunities to improve revenue, profitability, and market share.Contribute to strategic planning activities and business reviews.Market and Competitive AnalysisConduct market research and competitive analysis to identify trends, opportunities, risks, and customer needs.Analyze sales, margin, inventory, and market data to support category decisions.Provide recommendations based on business performance metrics and market intelligence.Maintain awareness of industry developments, technologies, and customer requirements within the Performance Solutions market.Pricing and ProfitabilitySupport pricing strategies and initiatives designed to improve margin performance and market competitiveness.Assist in evaluating pricing opportunities, promotions, and product positioning.Monitor category financial performance and contribute to forecasting and business planning activities.Cross-Functional CollaborationPartner with Sales, Marketing, Supply Chain, Operations, Finance, and other stakeholders to execute category initiatives.Support product launches, marketing campaigns, and customer-facing programs.Assist in resolving product, supply, or customer issues that affect category performance.Coordinate with suppliers and internal stakeholders to support category objectives.Data Analysis and ReportingDevelop and maintain reports, dashboards, and performance metrics to track category results.Analyze large data sets to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement.Prepare presentations and business recommendations for leadership and cross-functional teams.Maintain accurate and consistent category data and reporting.Required QualificationsBachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Finance, Supply Chain, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.Two or more years of experience in category management, product management, marketing, sales analysis, business analysis, or a related commercial role.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data and develop actionable insights.Experience using Microsoft Excel and business reporting tools.Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.Effective written and verbal communication skills.Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively across remote and cross-functional teams.Preferred QualificationsExperience supporting a product portfolio in manufacturing, automotive aftermarket, industrial, or performance solutions industries.Experience with pricing analysis, market research, or product lifecycle management.Familiarity with ERP, CRM, or business intelligence platforms.Experience creating dashboards and analyzing large data sets using Power BI or a similar analytical tool.Knowledge of category management principles and commercial business processes.Key CompetenciesBusiness AcumenAnalytical ThinkingCustomer FocusStrategic MindsetCollaboration and Relationship BuildingProject ManagementResults OrientationAdaptabilityContinuous ImprovementScope and ImpactSupports category planning and execution for assigned product categories.Provides analytical insights and recommendations that inform category decisions.Contributes to revenue growth, profitability improvement, portfolio optimization, and customer satisfaction objectives.Works with cross-functional partners across business functions and geographic locations.Work EnvironmentRemote position based in the United States.Standard business hours, with flexibility to support business needs.Occasional travel may be required based on business demands.An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.