Category Specialist

HALO Branded Solutions; United States; On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

HALO Branded Solutions is seeking a Category Specialist to support category sourcing and client programs. This role translates product direction into cost-effective solutions, partnering closely with Senior Sourcing Specialists to ensure viable supplier strategies.

The ideal candidate will manage product categories, execute RFQs and supplier outreach, and possess a Bachelor's degree in a related field, along with 2+ years of industry experience. Strong analytical and communication skills are essential for success.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience within the promotional products industry.
• Understanding of landed cost, freight, and decoration cost drivers.
• Ability to translate product, material, and supplier trends into actionable recommendations.

Responsibilities

• Support Senior Sourcing Specialists in delivering cost‑competitive sourcing solutions.
• Execute RFQs, supplier outreach, and quote analysis.
• Participate in supplier negotiations and support cost optimization efforts.
• Monitor product, material, supplier, and market trends.

Skills

Strong analytical skills

Advanced Excel proficiency

Strong communication skills

Supplier coordination skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Merchandising, or related field

Tools

ERP/PDM systems

Job description

HALO is seeking a Category Specialist to support category sourcing, cost development, and product solutions that drive successful enterprise opportunities and ongoing client programs.

Operating at the intersection of Sales, Merchandising, Account Management, and Global Sourcing, this role translates product direction into executable, cost‑effective solutions. The specialist partners closely with Senior Sourcing Specialists to support supplier strategy, cost analysis, and sourcing execution, ensuring solutions are commercially viable and aligned to project objectives.

This role owns specific product categories (e.g., apparel, drinkware, tech, hardgoods), serving as a category resource for supplier capabilities, product options, cost drivers, and market trends. Upon award, the specialist supports the transition of sourcing inputs, supplier selections, and cost details to Implementation and Merchandising teams to ensure alignment with program requirements.

Responsibilities

• Support Senior Sourcing Specialists in delivering cost‑competitive sourcing solutions for RFPs, informal pursuits, and existing client opportunities.
• Execute RFQs, supplier outreach, and quote analysis, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and alignment to timelines.
• Assist in supplier identification, evaluation, and selection across domestic and overseas manufacturing.
• Participate in supplier negotiations and support cost optimization efforts.
• Develop and validate cost inputs, including pricing, freight considerations, and landed cost awareness.
• Ensure all cost details, supplier selections, and sourcing inputs are clearly documented for implementation handoff.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings, material optimization, and alternative sourcing options.

Category Ownership & Product Lifecycle Support

• Own assigned product categories, developing working knowledge of suppliers, product options, cost structures, and decoration methods.
• Support category execution by providing supplier recommendations and product options aligned to project needs.
• Partner with Merchandising to support the product lifecycle, including replacement options, refresh opportunities, and discontinued product management.
• Maintain visibility into supplier changes, product availability, and lifecycle status, proactively identifying alternative options.

Product Trends & Insights

• Monitor product, material, supplier, and market trends within assigned categories.
• Identify emerging products, decoration methods, and supplier capabilities.
• Contribute to sourcing recommendations and presentations, supporting Sales, Merchandising, and Account Management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Merchandising, or related field.
• 2+ years of experience within the promotional products industry (distributor, supplier, or related).
• Experience supporting supplier sourcing and cost analysis across domestic and overseas production.
• Ability to identify and translate product, material, and supplier trends into actionable sourcing recommendations.
• Understanding of landed cost, freight, and decoration cost drivers.
• Ability to operate in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment.
• Strong analytical skills and advanced Excel proficiency.
• Strong communication and supplier coordination skills.
• Experience with ERP/PDM systems is preferred.
• Familiarity with, or willingness to learn, AI tools to improve efficiency in sourcing and workflow execution.
• Willingness to travel to suppliers and trade shows, and corporate engagements as needed.
• Operates with urgency, discipline, and a strong ownership mindset.