Senior Category Manager

SM Retail; Metro Manila; On-site; PHP 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Job summary

SM Retail in Metro Manila is seeking a Senior Category Merchandising Manager to lead end-to-end merchandising strategy for the assigned department, driving profitability and aligning with business objectives. The role demands strong analytical acumen, leadership, and the ability to influence cross-functional partners.

Responsibilities include strategy and buying leadership, forecasting, sales and inventory optimization, supplier management, and strategic reporting to senior leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field is required.
• 8+ years of merchandising or product management experience, preferably in fashion or retail.
• Proficiency in merchandising software and tools, along with Microsoft Excel.
• Strong understanding of consumer behavior and market trends.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, selection, and buying of merchandise in line with business goals and customer needs.
• Guide and mentor a team of buyers/associates to strengthen category expertise and execution.
• Leverage data, market intelligence, and trend analysis to forecast demand and identify growth opportunities.
• Develop, implement, and oversee sales, stock, and assortment plans across all store formats.
• Lead negotiations with suppliers to secure terms and partnerships and present category performance to senior leadership.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Merchandising strategy

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Fashion Merchandising, Business, Marketing, or related field

Tools

Merchandising software

Microsoft Excel

Job description

The Senior Category Merchandising Manager will be responsible for driving the end-to-end merchandising strategy for the assigned department/category. This role demands not only strong analytical and commercial acumen but also proven leadership in guiding teams, influencing cross-functional stakeholders, and aligning merchandising strategies with overall business objectives. The role is critical in shaping the product vision, ensuring profitability, and sustaining the brand’s competitive edge in the market.

Key Responsibilities:

Merchandise Strategy and Buying Leadership

• Lead the planning, selection, and buying of merchandise in line with business goals and customer needs.
• Ensure a disciplined documentation and review process to support informed decision-making.
• Guide and mentor a team of buyers/associates to strengthen category expertise and execution.

Forecasting, Trend Analysis, and Business Insight

• Leverage data, market intelligence, and trend analysis to forecast demand and identify growth opportunities.
• Translate insights into actionable category strategies, ensuring alignment with broader company objectives.
• Act as a thought leader in anticipating shifts in consumer behavior and market dynamics.

Sales and Inventory Optimization

• Develop, implement, and oversee sales, stock, and assortment plans across all store formats.
• Ensure the right product mix tailored to customer preferences, store size, and location.
• Monitor performance and adjust strategies to maximize sales, margin, and inventory productivity.

Supplier Management and Product Development

• Lead negotiations with suppliers to secure the best terms, pricing, and partnerships.
• Partner with cross-functional teams (marketing, operations, product development) to deliver differentiated assortments and innovative product offerings.
• Build long-term supplier relationships that strengthen category competitiveness.

Strategic Reporting and Executive Influence

• Prepare, present, and defend category strategies and business performance updates to senior leadership.
• Provide forward-looking recommendations based on data-driven insights.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement, agility, and accountability within the merchandising function.

The job seeks:

• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising, Business, Marketing, or a related field.
• At least 8 years of experience in merchandising or product management, preferably in fashion or retail.
• Proficiency in merchandising software and tools, along with Microsoft Excel.
• Strong understanding of consumer behavior and market trends.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously.