Sr. Merchant, Category Solutions

The Sr. Category Solutions Merchant will be responsible for the development and execution of the strategic category plan for multiple departments.  They will oversee the channel strategy, vertical engagement, store optimization, offer development, and the go-to market strategy. Must understand customer needs, enabling them to provide solutions by segment including vertical execution to maximize customer spend.  Will develop new products, services and solutions to fill gaps within the assortment. Partners with the VP of Merchandising to develop 1-3 year strategy plans for categories by customer type for assigned categories. Strategies will have a meaningful impact on the company income and profitability streams.

Works with the VP of Merchandising in the establishment and execution of the necessary category plans, strategies and tactics to deliver the sales, margin and inventory objectives supporting the solution strategy. Promotes the objectives to which the Assortment Optimization Specialist, Private Brand, Finance, Solution Insights and Product Optimization Specialist operate.

This role requires a comprehensive understanding of all current and future paths to purchase. Necessitating knowledge of key drivers including: 

• Retail store format optimization and brick & mortar shopping experience 
• Web dynamics, digital marketing impacts, and mobile experience 
• Contract B2B sales motion, pricing strategies and vertical / customer segmentation.  

Responsible for people management, leadership and development of team and has significant influence in the mentoring and coaching across merchandising professional staff. 

Interacts extensively with executive C-suite level professionals both internally and externally. 

Primary Responsibilities:

• Develops one or more direct reports, including preparation for increased responsibilities, coaching, performance management, and long-term career planning.
• Identifies new vendors and new products/services that support targeted customer needs and aligns with the strategic category plan.
• Establishes, plans and implements all programs to achieve sales, gross margin and grow market share.
• In partnership with Sr. Director, develops and executes strategic category plan. Leads the communication of the category plan cross-functionally.
• Reviews and utilizes vendor scorecards to manage vendor relationships.
• Works with Financial Forecasting and Solution Analyst to gauge the effectiveness of the category strategy in relation to goals.
• Creates and implements sound vertical and channel strategy in line with the overall solution strategy.
• Hands off vendor strategy to Assortment Management to build out micro and vertical assortments as well as overall assortment.
• Hands off to Product Optimization to ensure effective pricing and promotion across all channels leveraging best price and placement.

Education and Experience:

• Level of Formal Education: Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience​
• Area of Study: Business Administration, Marketing, Merchandising
• Minimum Years of Experience: 7​
• Type of Experience:
  • Retail and Merchandising Experience
  • Leadership and Management
  • Strategic Leadership
  • P&L Management
  • Long-Term Planning
• Technical Competencies & Information Systems: Intermediate PC software skills using Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
• Skills & Abilities:
  • Strategic Planning and Execution
  • Negotiation Skill
  • Financial Acumen
  • Vendor and Supplier Management
  • Market and Consumer Insights
  • Project Management
  • Communication and Interpersonal Skills
  • Problem-Solving
• Personal Attributes & Other/Preferred:
  • Visionary Leadership
  • Strategic Mindset
  • Influence
  • Accountability  

About The ODP Group: The ODP Group, through its business entities ODP Business Solutions and Office Depot, is a leading provider of products, services, and technology solutions through an integrated business-to-business (B2B) distribution platform and omnichannel presence, which includes world-class supply chain and distribution operations, dedicated sales professionals, online presence, and a network of Office Depot and OfficeMax retail stores. 

Commitment to Safety: We are committed to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment for our Coworkers and our customers. All Coworkers are expected to support our operational safety culture by working safely and addressing potential hazards or concerns. 

Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by Coworkers assigned to this classification and are not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of Coworkers so classified. Other duties may be assigned.  

Pay, Benefits & Work Schedule: The company offers competitive salaries, a benefits package, which includes a 401(k) and more, along with plenty of opportunities to move and grow within our organization! You may be eligible to participate in an incentive program, paid in accordance with the Incentive Plan terms and conditions. 

Equal Employment Opportunity: The company is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in all employment practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, age, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law. 

We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records pursuant to the City & County of San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.   

Application Deadline: The job posting will remain open for a minimum of 3 days and will expire once the position has been filled. 

How to Apply: Click the “Apply Now” button and follow the instructions on each page. When you have completed the application, click the “Submit” button.