Category Manager

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Category Manager (Non-Apparel)

Category Strategy & Planning

• Define and execute category strategy for non-apparel verticals such as footwear, bags, watches, beauty, or other lifestyle categories.
• Identify growth opportunities, market gaps, and consumer trends to build differentiated product offerings.
• Own the P&L for the category – sales, margins, inventory, and marketing spends.

Assortment & Merchandising

• Plan product assortment in line with consumer demand, seasonality, and market trends.
• Work with merchandising and marketing teams to design campaigns, promotions, and seasonal collections.
• Optimize pricing, discounting, and promotions to drive profitability and conversion.

Vendor & Brand Management

• Build and manage strong vendor/brand relationships to negotiate terms, pricing, and supply commitments.
• Onboard new brands and products aligned with category strategy.
• Ensure seamless vendor operations – from procurement to fulfillment.

Operations & Performance Management

• Collaborate with supply chain, inventory, and logistics teams to ensure product availability and timely delivery.
• Monitor daily sales, stock levels, and category performance metrics; take corrective actions when required.
• Conduct regular competitive analysis to benchmark pricing, product assortment, and category trends.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with marketing to execute category campaigns and promotions.
• Partner with product & tech teams to enhance category visibility, navigation, and consumer journey.
• Provide inputs to finance on budgets, forecasting, and ROI measurement.

• 4–8 years of experience in category management, buying/merchandising, or business strategy (preferably in e-commerce, retail, FMCG, or quick commerce).
• Strong business acumen with experience in P&L ownership and vendor negotiations.
• Analytical mindset with proficiency in Excel/Google Sheets, data analysis, and reporting tools.
• Ability to identify consumer trends and translate them into business opportunities.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving skills.

• MBA or Postgraduate in Business, Marketing, or Retail Management.
• Prior experience in non-apparel categories such as beauty, electronics, or FMCG.
• Exposure to fast-paced startups, e-commerce platforms, or retail companies.