Category Specialist

Job Purpose:

The Category Specialist will assist and collaborate with the Category Manager in the development and execution of category strategies for all elements of the merchandising mix (i.e. product mix, pricing strategies, promotional mix, promotional events, seasonal plans, private brands).

Job Dimensions:

DIRECT REPORTS: N/A

FINANCIAL: N/A

OTHER: N/A

Principal Responsibilities:

• Supervise implementation of pricing strategies and reviews regional competitive price checks per direction of Category Manager
• Coordinate Plan-o-gram planning and implementation to align with Category Management strategies including efficient product mix, samples, timing, shelf placement, adjacencies, corporate brand placement, growth outcomes, product distribution, and store communication
• Conduct category analysis including weekly category sales and margin, vendor purchases and sales, Nielsen market data, product markdowns, seasonal analysis, and Private Brands performance
• Coordinate seasonal programs (i.e. Timelines, samples, buy sheets, distribution allocations, store communication, sell through, markdowns, promotional planning)
• Arrange communication of category activities both internally and to stores (i.e. inventory issues, recalls, new items, flyer promotions, corrections)
• Conduct weekly flyer proofing and attend Advertising Meeting in the absence of the Category Manager
• Review and follow critical path schedules for promotional flyers and special event programs
• Communicate vendor revenue changes to Planning and/or Finance
• Assist with billing, costing, and various revenue inquiries
• Coordinate category activities with Supply Chain
• Review vendor-supplied research to improve merchandising opportunities
• Implement category plans with critical scheduling, budget development, and ongoing scheduling and performance monitoring
• Assist in handling the profitability of category sales for over 400 corporate locations
• Collaborate closely with all internal departments on pricing and invoicing issues for vendors and retail banners
• Coordinate the timely receipt of new item listing forms, cost change notifications as well as other item-related changes from vendors and verify item maintenance forms for complete and accurate information
• Facilitate the listing of new products by completing selected fields within the item listing form and communicates these listings (and de-listings) in stores
• Review Price Change Report to ensure accurate item cost and price prior to transmission to stores
• Complete Flyer End Cap Form and submit for processing by Supply Chain
• Attend quarterly business reviews with vendor representatives
• Develop weekly communications to all retail stores on new product entries, deletions, or meaningful developments
• Prepare and delivers special presentations to retail banner members
• Respond promptly and efficiently to all partner inquiries to address any issues
• Generate revenues for co-op advertising, including promotional flyers, proprietary marketing material, and special events
• Investigate and resolve store issues regarding product inquiries in a timely manner reflecting corporate policy.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support Rexall Pharmacy Group Ltd.

Knowledge, skills and experience:

• Minimum 2 years College Diploma in a relevant field
• 3 years experience within a Category/Merchandising environment. 
• 3 years retail store experience preferred 
• Excellent communication both verbal and written.
• Outstanding interpersonal and time management/prioritization skills.
• Demonstrated planning and negotiation skills, financial analysis and administration skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs

Context and Environment:

• Fast-paced and changing environment that requires attention to detail and taking a creative approach to executing related initiatives. 

Internal Communications:

• Extensive daily interaction with Merchandising and Advertising team.

External Communications:

• Vendor Community