The Category Analyst provides analysis and assisting in the introduction of new products and reviews, supporting all aspects of the administration of marketing/promotional activities and preparing store communications. The Category Analyst provides strong & effective exchange of information between Vendors, Marketing, Inventory Management, Visual Merchandising, all support groups and the stores. Success in this role will require a highly organized, detail-oriented (accurate and thorough), excellent communicator who can effectively collaborate cross-departmentally, who is solutions-oriented and who thrives in a high-tempo, dynamic and changing environment.
Essential Duties
· Ensures the implementation of new item setups and item maintenance. This includes vendor data, life cycle and listing types, item descriptions, web info and appropriate duty classification & import permits are in place.
· Generates reports and analyzes data concerning item performance and provides recommendations to manager concerning possible changes or improvements.
· Lead projects or tasks through cross functional areas.
· Report on the success or challenges on strategies implemented.
· Provides monthly selling data to Vendor Partners.
· Maintain promotional calendar for each brand.
· Works with vendors to gather monthly promos strategies. Updates/maintains marketing schematics form.
· Collaborate with the team on implementing ecomm strategies.
· Collaborate with Marketing to execute marketing/promotional activities e.g., promotional schedule, samples, fulfilment of vendor support agreements, shelf talkers and product imagery
· Recaps and provides feedback on results of promotional events.
· Assist manager with evaluation of cost changes with additional analysis and review of cost change templates. Follow up to ensure implementation.
· Prepare store communications for new products, promotions, sales information, etc.
· Training for new brands/products to stores. Work with content & process to be provided.
· Collaborate with Visual Merchandising Manager on planogram changes and updates once overall direction is provided.
· Maintain image data base
· Produce new product launch and product knowledge training presentations
· Work cross functionally with web site team to ensure correct product content, copy and images
· Handles vendor questions/issues/problems on an as needed basis
· Perform general administration and other duties and projects as assigned
Experience & Education
· 3-5 years supporting a purchasing/buying department
· Post-Secondary education with a focus in Business/Retail (preferable) or Marketing and Communications
Competencies
· Very customer service oriented
· Strong organizational skills
· Works well interdepartmentally
· Attention to detail
· Sense of urgency
· Excellent follow up skills
· Strong written and verbal communication skills
· Ability to adapt to constant changes in priorities
· Solid critical thinking skills (confirmed in a test)
· Professional manner, tact, diplomacy and discretion in dealing with vendors and colleagues, including Senior Management.
· Report building and data analyzing
Skills
· Demonstrated strong knowledge and experience in Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint
Pet Supermarket is an equal opportunity employer.