Category Manager

Dayco Canada Corp; Birmingham (MI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive solutions provider is seeking a Category Manager in Birmingham, MI. This role focuses on developing tailored pricing strategies and leading product line reviews to enhance customer profitability. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree, strong analytical skills, and experience in category management within the automotive sector. Competitive candidates will also possess familiarity with Microsoft tools and analytics software.

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of category management experience.
• 2 years of automotive aftermarket experience preferred.
• Experience in retail, CPG, or B2B environment a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead product line reviews for key accounts.
• Develop and implement tailored pricing strategies.
• Evaluate account-level performance for margin improvement.

Skills

Analytical skills

Customer engagement

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

PowerBI

Job description

We are seeking a data-driven and collaborative customer-centric Category Manager who leads initiatives across pricing, product line reviews, and market analytics. This role is pivotal in driving customer profitability and delivering tailored category strategies that align with both internal goals and external customer needs. This role is the bridge between data and decision-making, working closely with sales, finance, and marketing teams to shape the future of our category performance.

• Lead and present tailored product line reviews for key accounts, identifying opportunities for assortment optimization and growth.
• Develop and implement pricing strategies that balance competitiveness with profitability, customized to customer segments and market dynamics.
• Evaluate account-level performance, identifying margin improvement opportunities and guiding strategic decisions to enhance ROI.
• Manage product transitions and changeovers, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum value for both the customer and the business.
• Gather and interpret market trends, competitive insights, and customer data to inform category strategies and drive innovation.
• Collaborate with sales and legal teams to structure and negotiate customer contracts that support long-term partnerships and category growth.

Knowledge and Experience (Minimum qualifications necessary to perform the job competently)

Educational Experience:
Bachelor’s Degree

Field of Study / Technical Certifications:
Automotive

Minimum Years of Experience:
1-3 Years category management; 2 Years Automotive Aftermarket experience is preferred, but not required (retail, CPG, or B2B -environment a plus)

Required PC Skills:

Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerBI and other analytics tools

Required Technical Skills:

Category/Pricing/Customer Strategy & Execution; Customer Profitability Analysis; Changeover Analysis; Market Intelligence & Analytics; Customer Contract & Negotiation knowledge

Additional Job Specifications and Required Behaviors

• Strategic thinking with strong analytical skills and a passion for customer engagement
• Comfortable presenting to senior stakeholders and navigating complex business conversations

Working Conditions/Physical Demands

Working in varying weather conditions which includes driving to client locations, attending trade shows, and participating in networking events. Primarily field-based, with occasional office visits for meetings, reporting, and training. Representatives may work in various settings including client offices, retail locations, and outdoor environments. Must be able to stand, walk, and drive for extended periods. Carrying promotional materials or product samples may be necessary. Regular use of mobile devices, laptops, and CRM software to manage client interactions, schedule appointments, and report sales activity.

Disclaimer

The statements contained herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified

Global Headquarters
Dayco Incorporated
401 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Suite 308
Birmingham, MI 48009
United States