Senior Category Manager — Data-Driven Retail Strategist

Advantage-Solutions; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

JLB is seeking a Sr. Category Manager in Minneapolis to lead category strategies for Target, delivering insights and recommendations through in-store and online analyses.

You will manage planograms, oversee reporting, and coordinate with merchants, analysts, and promo teams to drive category growth and shopper engagement. The role requires 8+ years in retail or brand work, 5+ years in category advisory, and expertise in JDA/Blue Yonder.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Business, Finance, Economics, Statistics, Mathematics, Data Science, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in retail or brand background.
• 5+ years of relatable Category Advisor or Captainship is preferred.
• Planogram building (JDA/Blue Yonder) is a must.
• Target-specific Category Management experience.
• Proficient in reporting, analytics, planogram writing, and executive-style presentations.

Responsibilities

• Relationships: Manages day-to-day relationships with Target and cross-functional teams, leads client meetings and strategy sessions.
• Reporting: Owns end-to-end reporting with data integration and weekly insights.
• Marketplace Insights/Competitive Shops: Analyzes market trends, pricing, and SKU selection for strategic recommendations.
• Category & Seasonal Reviews: Performs deep-dive analyses on sales, segmentation, and assortment gaps with actionable recommendations.
• Planogram Process: Manages transition and revision of planograms, from item attributes to store-specific execution.
• Digital Support: Develops digital performance reports and seasonal analyses to support business objectives.
• Macro & Micro Trends: Identifies emerging trends and translates insights into category initiatives.

Skills

Strategic Thinker

Highly Organized

Advanced Analytical Skills

Detail-Oriented

Excellent Communication

Self-Starter

Customer Service Focused

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Business/Finance/Economics/Statistics/Data Science

Tools

JDA/Blue Yonder

Excel

POS systems

Kantar

Mintel

Numerator

Domo

Job description

JLB is seeking a Sr. Category Manager in Minneapolis to lead category strategies for Target, delivering insights and recommendations through in-store and online analyses.

You will manage planograms, oversee reporting, and coordinate with merchants, analysts, and promo teams to drive category growth and shopper engagement. The role requires 8+ years in retail or brand work, 5+ years in category advisory, and expertise in JDA/Blue Yonder.