Category Manager
Mississauga, ON
Supply Chain Distribution
Competitive salary $85,000-$125,000 based on experience with bonus, comprehensive benefits, and a collaborative team culture
Job Summary
Our client, an established national distribution and supply-chain organization, is seeking a Category Manager to support strategic sourcing and category performance across a multi-vendor environment. This role plays a key part in driving competitive product programs, strengthening supplier partnerships, and improving overall category profitability. The Category Manager will work cross-functionally to align purchasing strategies with commercial and operational goals while ensuring strong governance and process discipline. This is a high-impact role suited for a commercially minded professional who thrives in a data-driven, relationship-focused setting.
The Role:
Lead and manage supplier relationships, including sourcing, negotiations, and ongoing performance management for assigned product categories
Develop and execute category strategies that balance pricing competitiveness, quality, service levels, and long-term sustainability
Partner cross-functionally with sales, marketing, operations, and finance to design and implement effective purchasing and commercial programs
Analyze market trends, industry dynamics, and competitive positioning to inform category decisions and future opportunities
Own the lifecycle management of products within assigned categories, including launches, transitions, and exit strategies where required
Act as a project lead for vendor changes, program updates, and pricing or contract modifications
Negotiate pricing structures, contractual terms, and program details with suppliers and communicate changes internally
Ensure purchasing activities align with governance, risk, audit, and compliance requirements
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to streamline purchasing processes and eliminate non-value-added activity
Support internal stakeholders by addressing category-related inquiries and escalations in a timely and professional manner
The Ideal Candidate:
3–5 years of experience in category management, product management, purchasing, or a comparable commercial role
Demonstrated experience with supplier negotiations, contract management, and program execution
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, market trends, and financial impacts to support decision-making
Proven ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously in a cross-functional environment
Clear, confident communication skills with the ability to present insights to internal stakeholders
Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain, or a related discipline
Experience in a distribution, wholesale, or B2B environment is considered an asset
Familiarity with project management principles or formal certification (e.g., PMP) is an advantage
Comfortable working independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative team structure
JobID#16816134
