Category Manager Sport Milano

Category Manager Sport
Milano
Lombardia, Milano

The Category Manager is responsible for the research, coordination and ultimate execution of the global product line.

This position requires insight into the needs of the global consumer, retailer and athlete, both from the current market perspective as well as future growth opportunities by researching, identifying and defining current and future market opportunities.

The Category Manager will work within the Global Product Department to identify and execute a product line that hits corporate growth, margin and profit goals from concept to market.

**AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITIES AND RELATED ACTIVITIES**:

- Research the global market to identify opportunities and to stay on top of competitors, product innovations, emerging trends, materials, features and price points to successfully launch commercial & innovative product collections into the market at correct price points.

- Manages SKU efficiency to targeted company goals.

- Initiates and manages product feedback and inputs to the regional sales teams to ensure Oakley and Costa have innovative, premium, technical products that drive sales to meet corporate goals

- Partners with Sales, Retail, Ecom and Marketing to effectively manage the design, development, distribution and net margin goals of the global product line from concept to product launch into the market.

- Build collections or products and brief creative team on direction, line plan, product features and price positioning working within the product development and sales calendar to meet deadlines to ensure the timely execution of the product line.

- Actively participates and presents at the global product design review meetings and present collections to the Sales Teams or accounts during the product development cycle and at Sales meetings

- Work closely with the Product Development team during internal prototype reviews and vendor visits.

- Maintain all product administration files and ensure prompt and accurate communication of all changes and updates to relevant departments and the sales team.

- Actively interacts with other categories team members to ensure a consistent line.

**NETWORK OF INTERACTION**:

- INTERNAL: Sourcing, Design, Brand/Marketing, Operations, Global sales channels

- EXTERNAL: key accounts, key vendors

**TECHNICAL SKILLS - PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE**:

- A degree in Marketing, Economics, Business, Merchandising, Fashion/Clothing Management or related field

- Strong competence in product merchandising and development

- Presentation skills

- Experience in the sports market or an interest or active participation in sports is appreciated