Senior Director, Merchandising and Product Management

Carquest Canada; Halifax; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the automotive aftermarket is seeking a Senior Director, Merchandising and Product Management. This pivotal role focuses on product strategy and inventory management to enhance growth and profitability, while leading a high-impact team. The position requires strong leadership, analytical skills, and experience in the industry, offering competitive compensation and the opportunity to influence future strategies.

Benefits

Competitive compensation and benefits package

Influence on product strategy and market positioning

Qualifications

• 7 to 10 years of progressive experience in merchandising or product planning.
• Proven leadership managing cross-functional teams.
• Deep understanding of the automotive aftermarket.

Responsibilities

• Define and implement long-term merchandising and inventory strategies.
• Lead and mentor a team of merchandising managers.
• Drive product category performance through market research.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical Skills

Strategic Thinking

Project Management

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Merchandising software tools

Job description

We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Senior Director, Merchandising and Product Management to lead the development and execution of product and inventory strategies that drive growth, profitability, and operational excellence. This high-impact role is pivotal in aligning merchandising vision with inventory performance, ensuring the right products are available at the right time, maximizing both customer satisfaction and return on investment. You’ll collaborate cross-functionally with Sales, Operations, Purchasing, and Marketing teams to bring innovative product strategies to life.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with executive leadership to define and implement long-term merchandising and inventory strategies.
• Lead and mentor a team of merchandising managers and inventory specialists, fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and performance.
• Drive product category performance through market research, competitive analysis, and collaboration with vendors.
• Define product roadmaps based on market trends, customer needs, and business goals.
• Partner with vendors and CARQUEST member companies to ensure product quality, continuity, and innovation.
• Develop and execute marketing programs, promotions, and packaging strategies to drive category growth.
• Design pricing strategies that balance competitiveness with profitability.
• Oversee inventory planning and performance across assigned categories.
• Monitor key performance indicators including pricing, gross profit, and inventory levels to ensure optimal ROI.
• Collaborate with supply chain and purchasing teams to align inventory with demand forecasts and merchandising plans.
• Work closely with Sales, Operations, Marketing, and Purchasing teams to ensure seamless execution from strategy to shelf.

Qualifications

Experience

• 7 to 10 years of progressive experience in merchandising, product planning, or purchasing within the automotive aftermarket industry.
• Proven leadership experience managing cross-functional teams and driving strategic initiatives.
• Deep understanding of the automotive aftermarket and product lifecycle.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to anticipate market shifts and adapt plans accordingly.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven mindset.
• Excellent organizational and project management abilities.
• Effective communicator with strong presentation and negotiation skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and relevant merchandising software tools.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

Why Join Us?

• Lead a high-impact team at the intersection of product strategy and operational execution.
• Influence the future of our product strategy and market positioning.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.

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