Category Manager at HouseMart

HouseMart is an established Hawaii-based retail organization built on an entrepreneurial spirit that strives to serve as a symbol of success through our service and commitment to our customers. Our organization currently operates over 30 Ace Hardware, Ben Franklin Craft and Daiso stores, with over 500 employees in Hawaii, Washington, Oregon, and Nevada. A local family-owned business for more than 70 years, the HouseMart brand strives to serve as a symbol of family values, exceptional service, and commitment to providing the products our customers need. 

We are currently seeking a Category Manager for our Merchandising team.

This role collaborates with the Director of Merchandising to develop and implement strategies that enhance the performance of assigned merchandise categories. This includes optimizing product assortment, pricing, placement, and promotional activities to maximize sales, profit margins, and inventory turnover. As the category expert, the manager supports store teams through coaching on merchandising best practices and drives initiatives that increase product appeal and customer demand. The role requires up to 30% travel and occasional weekend work for trade shows, vendor meetings, and other business events.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Achieve financial targets in assigned categories including, but not limited to, sales, gross margin, return on investment, inventory turnover and net margin.
• Analyze sales performance, pricing, and product quality to develop effective assortments that meet financial targets.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment on assortment planning, financial forecasting, inventory levels, store allocations, and visual presentation standards.
• Continuously assess item performance and space utilization to optimize stock levels and determine which products to maintain, replace, or discontinue.
• Develop and implement promotional strategies that drive both revenue and profitability. Evaluate the impact of advertising and social media campaigns and identify opportunities to differentiate the company through unique product assortments and enhanced customer experiences.
• Build seasonal and promotional assortments, focusing on key items and trends. Strategically position products to drive urgency and sales, while supporting sourcing efforts that deliver value and profitability.
• Negotiate pricing, quality, and value with a long-term focus, balancing customer needs and vendor relationships. Attend trade shows and manage vendor, agent, and factory partnerships to drive sales and improve productivity.
• Visit stores to assess merchandising execution and standards. Communicate new product launches through coaching, planograms, and engagement strategies that encourage teams to “create the need” and drive sell-through.
• Safety and security
  • Work in a safe manner to protect yourself, your co-workers and others who may be affected by your actions.
• Performs other related duties as required and assigned. 

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES:

Knowledge:

• Extensive knowledge of merchandising and retail business operations.
• Excellent organizational skills: ability to prioritize and manage time.

Communication:

• Effectively convey and receive information through clear speaking, active listening, and thoughtful questioning. Understand written materials and communicate appropriately in writing based on the audience’s needs.

Critical Thinking/Logic:

• Apply logic, reasoning, and analytical skills to evaluate problems, assess solutions, and make sound decisions. Organize work efficiently with attention to detail and accuracy.

Physical Exertion:

• Visual ability, corrected to perform job functions.
• Operating automated office equipment.
• Lifting up to 30lbs with the absence of physical limitations.

Computer Skills:

• Able to effectively work with EAGLE POS, Database user interface and other proprietary software.
• Able to effectively use the Office suite of products and the internet.

EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:

• Generally works Monday through Friday. Available flexible hours as needed (including days, nights, weekends, and holidays).
• Some flexibility in hours is allowed, but the employee must be available during office hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Must work 40 hours each week.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Work Environment: Works under regular office conditions. Occasional exposure to heat and dust, hazardous equipment (box openers, scissors, staplers, paper cutter), and supplies (ink, glues, chemicals, paint, etc.)
• Equipment/Tools Used: Basic office equipment, 10-key calculator, Planograms.

TRAVEL:

• This position requires up to 40% travel (local, neighbor island, domestic and international travel, etc.) to meet desired objectives.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum 5 years retail industry experience with experience in buying, merchandising, assorting, and promotional planning is preferred.  
• Craft and/or hardware experience is preferred.
• Experience with imported items is desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to work as a member of cross-functional teams.  
• Bachelor’s Degree in Business or related field.

FULL TIME BENEFITS:

• Health Plan Coverage (Medical, Vision, Dental) 
• 20% Employee Discount  
• 401(k) with Employer Match 
• Profit Sharing Program 
• 100% Company Paid Life Insurance 
• Vacation, Sick Leave, Personal Leave and Holidays

We are a drug-free workplace and an equal opportunity employer.