Category Program Manager

Position SummaryThe Category Program Manager – Private Label is responsible for managing assigned private label sub-categories and supporting category strategy execution through data-driven analysis, product development, sourcing initiatives, and business case development. This role partners closely with cross-functional teams and domestic and international suppliers to identify private label opportunities, optimize product assortment, improve category performance, and drive profitable growth.Key ResponsibilitiesManage the performance of assigned private label sub-categories by monitoring sales, profitability, and key business metrics.Identify private label growth and margin improvement opportunities, and develop business cases for new product introductions, product conversions, and sourcing initiatives.Support product development initiatives, including product specifications, supplier selection, sampling, and commercialization.Optimize product assortment, SKU rationalization, and product lifecycle decisions to maximize category performance.Participate in domestic and international vendor sourcing and negotiation activities to secure competitive pricing, quality, and supply continuity.Collaborate with Sales, Supply Chain, Marketing, Finance, and other cross-functional teams to execute private label strategies.Analyze market trends, customer insights, and competitive activity to identify growth opportunities.Prepare reports, dashboards, and presentations to support strategic decision-making.Support continuous improvement initiatives that enhance category efficiency and profitability.Travel internationally as needed to visit suppliers, evaluate manufacturing capabilities, and support product development initiatives.Required Skills & CompetenciesStrong analytical and quantitative skills.Solid understanding of category management and private label principles.Emerging negotiation and supplier relationship management skills.Understanding of product development and international sourcing processes preferred.Ability to translate complex data into actionable business insights.Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.Strong communication and collaboration skills.Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data analysis tools; experience with BI platforms is a plus.Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, Sourcing, or a related field.3–5 years of experience in Category Management, Product Development, Buying, Procurement, or a related commercial role.Experience developing business cases and analyzing product performance preferred.Experience working with international suppliers or private label products preferred. Key Performance Indicators (Success Metrics)Achievement of private label revenue growth and margin targets.Successful development and launch of new private label products.Improvement in SKU productivity and assortment effectiveness.Return on investment (ROI) from private label and sourcing initiatives.Supplier performance, including cost, quality, delivery, and service levels.Timely execution of category strategies and cross-functional initiatives.