Category Manager _ Electric Scooters

Smdtechnologies; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading mobility solutions provider in Johannesburg is seeking an experienced Category Manager to establish and manage a new division focused on electric scooters. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in product management and vendor negotiations, as well as a passion for innovation in the mobility sector. Responsibilities include leading product setup, market analysis, and strategy development. This role offers competitive compensation and opportunities for travel.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience as a Category Manager or similar role.
• Industry knowledge in electric mobility or automotive.
• Track record of launching new product categories.

Responsibilities

• Lead the setup and launch of electric scooter category.
• Conduct market analysis for trends and growth.
• Define the category vision and roadmap.

Skills

Category Management

Vendor Management

Negotiation Skills

Market Analysis

Sales Strategy

Product Development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

Marketing or Supply Chain

Tools

Microsoft Office

BI Tools

Job description

Job Brief We are seeking an experienced and driven Category Manager to establish, develop, and manage a new division focused on Electric Scooters.

This is a high-impact role suited to an individual with strong industry knowledge, a deep understanding of the target market, and existing relationships within the electric mobility ecosystem.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the end-to-end category development – including product sourcing, vendor negotiations, pricing, marketing, sales strategy, and profitability.

The role requires both strategic vision and hands‑on execution, making it ideal for someone with an entrepreneurial mindset and strong commercial acumen.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the setup, launch, and ongoing management of the electric scooter product category.
• Conduct market and competitor analysis to identify trends, growth opportunities , and consumer preferences.
• Define the category vision, positioning, and roadmap in line with the company's overall growth strategy.
• Build and maintain strategic supplier and vendor relationships , ensuring competitive pricing, quality, and availability.
• Negotiate commercial terms and agreements, including distribution and exclusivity deals where applicable.
• Collaborate with marketing, sales, operations, and merchandising teams to drive product visibility and promotion.
• Develop and implement pricing, promotional , and go-to-market strategies to maximize profitability and customer engagement.
• Forecast demand, plan inventory levels, and monitor product performance to meet sales and margin targets.
• Develop exit or re-alignment strategies for underperforming products.
• Take ownership of the category including budgeting, revenue growth, and cost control .
• Stay up to date with regulatory changes and compliance requirements relevant to the electric mobility sector.

Requirements and Skills

• Proven experience (5+ years) as a Category Manager, Product Manager, or similar role, preferably in electric mobility,or automotive industry.
• Industry knowledge and network within the electric scooter or electric vehicle (EV) segment is essential.
• Strong track record of launching and scaling new product categories or divisions .
• Solid understanding of category management, sales, and marketing principles .
• Excellent negotiation, vendor management, and communication skills.
• Strategic thinker with analytical and data-driven decision-making capabilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with BI tools, ERP systems, or retail platforms is advantageous.
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Supply Chain, or a related field.
• Key Attributes Entrepreneurial spirit and self-starter attitude .
• Strong business and commercial orientation.
• Ability to work cross-functionally and drive collaboration.
• Passion for innovation and sustainability in the transport sector.
• Willingness to travel when necessary to engage suppliers and attend industry events.