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Advance Auto Parts · 2 days ago

Category Manager

Raleigh, NC

Full-time

Onsite

Senior Level, Lead/Staff

8+ years exp

Advance Auto Parts is seeking a strategic and data-driven Category Manager to develop and execute category strategies that enhance business growth and customer satisfaction. This role involves managing supplier partnerships, analyzing financial needs, and leading cross-functional teams to optimize category performance.

AutomotiveRetail

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 adapt 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"

Qualification

Category ManagementSupplier NegotiationFinancial AcumenAnalytical SkillsERP SystemsLeadershipCommunicationCoaching AbilitiesData VisualizationCross-Functional Leadership