Category Manager - Books at Mighty Ape

Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

06 Aug, 26

Salary

0.0

Posted On

08 May, 26

Experience

2 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Category Management, Buying, Negotiation, Data Analysis, Excel, Stakeholder Management, Strategic Sourcing, Inventory Management, Pricing Strategy, Promotional Planning, Supplier Relationship Management, Product Lifecycle Management, Market Trend Analysis, Project Management, Financial Reporting, Demand Planning

Industry

Retail

Description

We're looking for a commercially sharp Category Manager to own and grow our Books category. Operating with an owner's mindset, you'll drive end-to-end commercial performance - from strategic sourcing and supplier negotiations through to pricing, inventory and promotional planning. If you're passionate about books and know how to turn that passion into results, this role is for you. Essential * 3+ years' experience in category management or buying within retail or e-commerce * Strong commercial and negotiation skills with proven results in revenue and margin growth * Advanced analytical skills — confident using Excel and interpreting sales and cost data * Excellent communication and stakeholder management across internal and external teams * Highly organised, proactive and results-driven with a strong ownership mentality Nice to have * Experience in book retail, publishing or media categories * Passion for books and knowledge of the NZ / AU & international market * Project management skills and experience Category strategy & performance * Develop and execute strategic plans for Books category growth aligned with sales and margin targets * Analyse performance data and market trends to identify opportunities and inform decisions * Monitor weekly sales results and adjust plans as needed to hit KPIs Product sourcing & range * Source new titles and ranges, negotiating favourable terms with publishers and distributors * Run competitive tenders and evaluate total landed cost to ensure profitability * Track trends, bestseller lists and competitor activity to maintain a compelling range * Manage full product lifecycle including pricing, clearance and promotional readiness * Manage rebate and co-op invoicing claims with proper documentation Supplier & inventory management * Build strong publisher and distributor relationships to ensure supply continuity and commercial value * Monitor stock levels to meet demand while minimising overstock and understock issues * Manage and maintain book feeds to ensure the widest range of books is available for purchase on our websites * Oversee import timelines and delivery coordination with logistics teams * Work closely with Demand Planning team on replenishment and uninterrupted supply * Effective handling of returns and SOR stock * Free Primate subscription * Team member discount * Annual book allowance * Health Insurance subsidy * NZ's favourite destination for games, tech, toys & more * Collaborative, energetic team culture * Real ownership and scope to make an impact * Fun team events, social squad & more

Responsibilities

The Category Manager is responsible for the end-to-end commercial performance of the Books category, including strategic sourcing and supplier negotiations. Key duties involve managing inventory, pricing, and promotional planning to drive revenue and margin growth.