Assistant Category Manager

Kent Building Supplies; Saint John; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading building supply retailer is seeking an individual for a purchasing role. The ideal candidate will have strong negotiation skills and previous experience in the lumber and building materials industry. Responsibilities include assisting the Category Manager, sourcing products, and analyzing performance. This position offers a supportive culture that values results and innovation.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in the lumber and building materials industry.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Willingness to learn and adapt quickly.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Category Manager with the day-to-day operation of the business.
• Provide store associates with service and information.
• Assist in sourcing new products and vendors.
• Assist in negotiating vendor agreements.
• Forecast sales and purchases.
• Assist in creating flyers.
• Analyze product and category performance.
• Perform general administrative duties.

Skills

Strong negotiation skills

Detail oriented

Self-Starter

Driven to achieve results

Systematic thinker

Energetic & well organized

Strong computer skills

Innovative

Effective communicator

Ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines

Job description

Overview

An opportunity currently exists for an individual who would like a career in commercial building supply purchasing. If you have an entrepreneurial spirit with interest in negotiation and product category management, please apply for this position.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Category Manager with the day to day operation of the business
• Provide store associates with service and information
• Assist in sourcing new products and vendors
• Assist in negotiating vendor agreements
• Forecast sales and purchases
• Assist in creating flyers
• Analysis of product and category performance
• General administrative duties

Qualifications

• Strong negotiation skills
• Detail oriented
• Self-Starter
• Driven to achieve results
• Systematic thinker
• Energetic & well organized
• Strong computer skills
• Innovative
• Effective communicator
• Ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines
• Previous experience in the lumber and building materials industry

About Us

Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) has operations in Canada and the United States and are a team of 20,000 dedicated employees. At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions.

We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities.

Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply.

We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

About The Team

Kent is the largest retail building supply chain in Atlantic Canada. With 48 locations and an ecommerce website, our mission is to be the best source of home improvement products through superior customer service and know-how, quality products, and everyday great prices. We protect our customers and staff by hiring and training associates committed to our safety values. We employ over 3,700 people and work hard to increase our market share through strategic investment in training and technology. We focus on the development of our people and promote a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. In addition to our retail stores, we operate truss manufacturing facilities and a wholesale drywall company. We are a member of Independent Lumber Dealers Co-operative and the ARENA buying group which ensures our great product selection and pricing