Lifetime Brands - Garden City, NY
posted 2 days ago
About the position
Mikasa Hospitality is a premier brand in the hospitality industry, providing top-tier tableware and buffet ware to hotels, restaurants, and event venues in North America. Our commitment to quality, design, and sustainability is reflected in every product we offer. As we continue to expand our product offerings, we are seeking a motivated and dynamic Assistant Category Manager to join our team and contribute to the success of our brand. The Assistant Category Manager will play a key role in supporting the category manager and president in the strategic development and growth of our product categories. This role is perfect for someone passionate about product management, market analysis, and supply chain operations. The Assistant Category Manager will assist in identifying trends, optimizing product assortments, managing supplier relationships, and driving category performance. This is an excellent opportunity for a driven individual looking to develop a career in category management and procurement within the hospitality industry.
Responsibilities
- Assist in tracking and analyzing sales data, market trends, and competitive landscape to identify growth opportunities and challenges within assigned product categories.
- Support the Category Manager in curating and expanding product assortments to meet customer demands and align with market trends.
- Help maintain positive relationships with suppliers, assist with price negotiations, manage product inquiries, and coordinate with suppliers to ensure timely product delivery and quality standards.
- Collaborate with the supply chain and inventory teams to manage stock levels, forecast demand, and minimize excess inventory or stockouts.
- Assist in planning and executing product launches and promotions, working closely with the marketing and sales teams.
- Work closely with sales, marketing, and logistics teams to support category initiatives and ensure effective product placement and availability.
- Stay informed about industry trends, competitor activities, and customer needs to provide actionable insights and recommendations.
- Provide general administrative support to the category management team, including preparing reports, maintaining product catalogs, and updating product information.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
- 1-2 years of experience in a category management, procurement, or retail buying role, preferably within the hospitality or consumer goods industry.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make informed decisions.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to work cross-functionally with different teams.
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and other data analysis tools; experience with ERP systems is a plus.
- Passion for the hospitality industry and keen interest in product trends and innovation.
Nice-to-haves
- Knowledge of the hospitality industry, particularly in the area of tableware, kitchenware, or similar products.
- Experience with vendor and supplier management.
- Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive mindset.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunities for career development and growth within a dynamic and innovative company.
- A collaborative and inclusive working environment with a focus on employee well-being and work-life balance.
