Sr. Category Buyer - Boating & Water

Jobot; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 130,000 - 145,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive Benefits Package

401(k) with Company Match

Career Growth Path

Robust Relocation Package

Job summary

Jobot is seeking a Lead Boating Strategy professional to drive sales and manage inventory for a national retailer based in Houston, Texas. This role offers true category ownership, full P&L responsibility, and a comprehensive relocation package, along with competitive compensation and a robust benefits package.

The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of retail experience, specifically in boating or a related field, and strong financial acumen. Join Jobot for a high visibility role that directly impacts enterprise strategy.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of retail experience, preferably in a buying role.
• At least 3+ years of experience in the boating, fishing, marine, or a similar category.
• Strong financial acumen, with the ability to analyze financial reports and make data-driven decisions.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Category Management Team to drive sales and manage inventory effectively.
• Manage the Open to Buy process, ensuring optimal inventory levels.
• Oversee vendor management for strong relationships and advantageous terms.

Skills

Retail experience

Financial acumen

Vendor management

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Passion for boating

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, or related field

Tools

Retail management systems

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Lead Boating Strategy for a National Retailer – Enterprise Visibility, Strategic Ownership, Full Relocation + Sign-On

Salary: $130,000 – $145,000 per year

Overview

We are a nationally recognized retailer with a strong footprint across the United States and a proven track record of sustained growth. This role provides true category ownership, full P’L responsibility, and direct impact on enterprise strategy. It includes a comprehensive relocation package and competitive compensation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Category Management Team to drive sales and manage inventory effectively.
• Manage the Open to Buy process, ensuring optimal inventory levels and minimizing stockouts or overstocks.
• Complete assortment planning and manage product lifecycles to maximize profitability and customer satisfaction.
• Develop, mentor, train, and manage assistant buyers, fostering a high-performing, collaborative team environment.
• Oversee vendor management, including vendor allowance collections and vendor strategy, to ensure strong relationships and advantageous terms.
• Stay informed of industry trends and market conditions to identify opportunities for growth and improvement.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align category strategy with overall business objectives.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of retail experience, preferably in a buying role.
• At least 3+ years of experience in the boating, fishing, marine, or a similar category.
• Strong financial acumen, with the ability to analyze financial reports and make data-driven decisions.
• Demonstrated experience in vendor management and negotiation.
• Proven leadership skills, with experience in training and mentoring team members.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Willingness to travel up to 15% of the time, domestically and internationally.
• Passion for the boating and marine industry, with a deep understanding of the market and customer needs.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, or a related field is preferred.
• Proficiency in retail management systems and Microsoft Office Suite.

Benefits

• True Category Ownership – Full P’L responsibility, Open-to-Buy control, vendor strategy, and assortment planning authority.
• High Visibility Role – Direct impact on enterprise strategy with cross-functional leadership exposure.
• Competitive Compensation + Performance Bonus.
• Robust Relocation Package – Comprehensive support including moving expenses, temporary housing assistance, and transition support.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package – Medical, dental, vision, HSA/FSA options, life and disability coverage.
• 401(k) with Company Match – Long-term wealth-building support.
• Career Growth Path – Clear advancement opportunities within a stable, expanding national organization.
• Collaborative, Entrepreneurial Culture – Work alongside experienced merchandising, planning, sourcing, and eCommerce leaders.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Jobot is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide an inclusive work environment that celebrates diversity and all qualified candidates receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (40 and over), disability, military status, genetic information or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Jobot also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on these protected categories. It is Jobot’s policy to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.