Category Analyst

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.