Category Manager

WOW Recruitment; Sydney; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

WOW Recruitment in Sydney is seeking a Category Manager to take end-to-end ownership of a high-volume portfolio in hospitality, including bedding, amenities, glassware and cookware.

You will shape product strategy, manage pricing, lead range reviews, source new products globally, and collaborate with supply chain to optimize stock turns and margins. Strong analytical skills and ERP experience (SAP B1 / Phocas) are essential; you will work on sustainability initiatives and direct partnerships.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years in Category Management or Commercial Buying with at least two successful category roles.
• Proven ability to negotiate pricing, rebates, lead times with international suppliers (China networks).
• Strong background in homewares / hospitality or commercial distribution.
• Advanced Excel skills and comfort with ERP tools (SAP B1 / Phocas).

Responsibilities

• Build annual category plans and optimize product lifecycles to boost revenue and margins.
• Conduct range reviews, identify rationalization targets, and source new products globally.
• Partner with Supply Chain to maintain stock turns and forecast demand.
• Utilize SAP B1, Phocas and Excel to spot market trends and drive decisions.

Skills

Category management

Negotiation

Excel advanced

ERP systems

Global sourcing

Tools

SAP Business One

Phocas

Job description

WOW Recruitment are looking to hire a commercially minded Category Manager who is ready to take on total end-to-end ownership of a thriving, high-volume portfolio within the Hospitality sector.

Backed by a proud 50-year legacy of quality, innovation, and trust, this Australian-owned commercial supplier is scaling fast across ANZ. Supplying major players across hospitality, healthcare, workplace, and accommodation sectors, we are seeking a driven Category Manager to champion a high-impact $10M portfolio.

Title: Category Manager

Location: Sydney

Working Model: On-Site

Sector: Hospitality

Why You’ll Love This Role

• Real Ownership: Step in and fully lead ~1,200 SKUs across commercial bedding, amenities, glassware, and cookware—shaping product strategy, margins, and growth from day one.
• Global Exposure: Drive international supply chain strategy and build deep, direct partnerships with over 60 overseas vendors (heavy China focus) and key ANZ suppliers.
• Executive Visibility: Report directly to the General Manager in an agile, entrepreneurial environment where your commercial decisions directly move the needle.
• Innovation & Sustainability: Spearhead market-leading eco-initiatives and sustainable packaging improvements across key categories.

What You'll Do

• Drive Commercial Performance: Build annual category plans, optimize product lifecycles, and execute data-backed pricing strategies to boost revenue and gross margins.
• Lead Range Reviews & Sourcing: Conduct rigorous range reviews, identify rationalization targets, and source winning new products from global markets.
• Master Inventory Health: Partner with Supply Chain to maintain optimal stock turns, forecast demand accurately, and eliminate obsolete stock risks.
• Stay Close to the Market: Utilize SAP Business One, Phocas, and advanced Excel to spot market trends—periodically hitting the road with our sales team to keep your finger on the pulse.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven Track Record: 3–5 years in Category Management or Commercial Buying, featuring at least two distinct, successful category management roles.
• Global Sourcing Expertise: Demonstrated success negotiating pricing, rebates, and lead times with international suppliers (specifically China manufacturing networks).
• Commercial Acumen: Strong background in homewares, retail, kitchen, bathroom, bedding, or commercial distribution (direct amenities experience is not required).
• Analytical Powerhouse: Advanced Excel skills and comfort using ERP tools (SAP Business One / Phocas preferred) to turn raw numbers into high-growth action plans.
• The Mindset: A proactive, "job to be done" work ethic—curious, customer-focused, and eager to build something exceptional.