Category Manager

Job Title: Category Manager – Product SourcingLocation: Jaipur, Rajasthan (On-site)Brands: HIPPO & AwnopyExperience: 3–4 years in sourcing, category management, or product development within the home furnishing or allied consumer goods sector.About the CompanyHIPPO and Awnopy are fast-growing Indian brands specializing in outdoor and indoor protection products—ranging from shade solutions, blinds, awnings, and lifestyle accessories. Both brands aim to blend functionality with design, offering value-driven, durable, and aesthetic products for modern living.We are expanding our product development and sourcing capabilities and are seeking a proactive, analytical, and creative Category Manager – Product Sourcing to join our team in Jaipur.Position OverviewThe Category Manager – Product Sourcing will be responsible for identifying new product opportunities, developing sourcing strategies, and managing end-to-end product development cycles. The role requires a balance of creativity, business acumen, market understanding, and negotiation expertise to ensure successful product commercialization.The ideal candidate should have a strong understanding of sourcing, supply chain operations, product pricing, and consumer demand trends—especially within the home furnishing and lifestyle categories.Key Responsibilities1. Product Ideation & Development- Identify new product categories and opportunities aligned with brand vision, seasonal trends, and consumer insights. - Conduct in-depth product research to assess feasibility, design direction, and potential market performance. - Collaborate with design and technical teams to convert concepts into commercially viable products. - Ensure all new product developments meet cost targets, quality standards, and brand identity.2. Forecasting & Planning- Collaborate closely with the sales, marketing, and operations teams to project category-wise demand based on market trends, past sales data, and seasonal variations. - Prepare detailed sales forecasts and category plans to support inventory, procurement, and production decisions. - Track sell-through rates, reorder patterns, and product lifecycle performance to ensure optimal stock availability and turnover. - Develop pricing strategies in line with cost structures, competition, and consumer perception to maintain healthy margins and brand positioning. - Work with finance and supply chain teams to align purchasing budgets, payment schedules, and inventory holding targets. - Monitor lead times, logistics schedules, and supplier delivery performance to ensure timely product launches and replenishments. - Utilize analytical tools and dashboards to generate actionable insights for category performance reviews and decision-making.3. Strategic Contribution- Participate in long-term category planning, pricing strategy, and product roadmap discussions. - Recommend new market segments and product lines for expansion. - Stay updated on industry developments, sustainability trends, and innovative sourcing practices.4. Market & Buyer Analysis- Conduct market intelligence studies to understand emerging trends, consumer preferences, and competitor strategies. - Evaluate existing product performance through sales data, feedback, and market response. - Recommend product improvements or replacements based on data-driven insights. - Create category strategies that align with brand goals and consumer behavior.5. Sourcing & Vendor Management- Develop, evaluate, and maintain relationships with domestic and international suppliers. - Source new materials, components, and manufacturing partners as per product and quality requirements. - Conduct supplier audits and capacity evaluations to ensure compliance and reliability. - Negotiate pricing, payment terms, lead times, and logistics for optimal supply chain efficiency. - Continuously explore cost optimization opportunities without compromising product integrity.Desired Candidate Profile- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, International Trade, or a related field. - 3–4 years of proven experience in product sourcing, category management, or merchandising, preferably in home furnishings, outdoor products, or consumer lifestyle goods. - Strong negotiation and vendor management skills with a network of reliable suppliers. - Excellent analytical, planning, and decision-making abilities. - Proficiency in Excel, data analysis, and category reporting tools. - Strong understanding of market dynamics, costing structures, and product life cycles. - Ability to work cross-functionally with design, marketing, and logistics teams. - Willingness to relocate to Jaipur and operate from the company’s head office.Key Competencies- Strategic and creative thinking - Strong communication and interpersonal skills - Commercial acumen and market foresight - Detail-oriented approach with multitasking capability - Accountability and ownership mindsetWhat We Offer- Opportunity to shape the sourcing and product development strategy of two growing consumer brands. - Exposure to national and international sourcing networks. - A collaborative, design-driven, and growth-oriented work culture. - Competitive remuneration based on experience and capability.All the interested candidates can leave their resume here.Thanks,Nikita KhandelwalDirectorRAD Global Private Limited