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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Retail Category Managers.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Retail Category Managers.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: -7%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Buy merchandise or commodities for resale to wholesale or retail consumers.
Examine, select, order, or purchase merchandise consistent with quality, quantity, specification requirements, or other factors, such as environmental soundness.
Negotiate prices, discount terms, or transportation arrangements with suppliers.
Becoming a retail category manager involves a combination of education, work experience, and the development of certain skill sets. If you're interested in pursuing this career path, follow these steps to position yourself for success in the field.
Before you set your sights on becoming a retail category manager, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of what the role entails. A retail category manager is responsible for managing a group or category of products for a company. Their duties include:
A solid educational foundation is typically required for a career as a retail category manager. Consider pursuing:
Hands-on experience is invaluable in the retail sector. To gain relevant experience:
Certain skills are essential for success as a retail category manager. Focus on developing:
Networking can open doors to opportunities in the retail industry. To build your professional network:
The retail landscape is constantly evolving, so staying informed about industry trends is critical. Keep up-to-date by:
As you gain experience, look for ways to advance your career:
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to establishing a successful career as a retail category manager. Remember that persistence, continuous learning, and adaptability are key factors in achieving your professional goals in this dynamic field.
A Retail Category Manager is a professional responsible for managing a group or category of products for a retailer. You oversee everything from the selection and pricing of products to the overall strategy for driving sales within your category. This role involves market research, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure the success of the products under your purview.
To become a Retail Category Manager, you typically need:
Advancement to a category manager position often follows a career path that starts in entry-level retail or merchandising roles such as a sales associate or assistant buyer, progressing through roles with increasing responsibility.
Retail Category Managers are employed across various sectors in the retail industry, including:
Yes, it's possible to transition from careers such as marketing, supply chain management, or sales into a Retail Category Manager role. Often what's important is possessing transferable skills such as strategic thinking, an understanding of consumer behavior, and proficiency in data analysis.
The job outlook for Retail Category Managers is generally positive. According to industry forecasts and reports from organizations like the National Retail Federation, retail continues to grow, with e-commerce adding new dimensions to the profession. However, competition can be fierce, and staying updated with current retail trends and technologies is crucial.
Challenges may include:
Professional development can take many forms:
Yes, with experience, you can advance into roles such as:
Promotion often depends on demonstrated success in improving sales and profits within your categories as well as leadership capabilities.