Snow and Bike Category Manager

Your role

We are looking for a Category Manager who will be responsible for running the research, coordination and assisting in the execution of the global Bike and Snow performance product lines.

This position requires finding insights into the needs of the global consumer, retailers, and athletes, both from the current market perspective as well as future growth opportunities for performance apparel and accessories.

The Category Manager is required to monitor category sales and be active in the forecasting process and provide analysis on business trend and investment.

This person will work within the Global Product Department – sitting within Merchandising but coordinating between Design, Development, Sourcing, Procurement, Marketing and Sales – to support the identity and execution of the Bike and Snow product line with the objective of hitting corporate growth, margin and profit goals from concept to market.

• Main responsibilities
• Research the global market to identify opportunities, review competition and product innovation, anticipate and track emerging trends, materials, consumer needs, etc. to successfully push, build and launch commercial, performance and innovative Bike and Snow product in the market at correct price points
• Analyze current and past business cases to think critically on a timeline that launches 1.5 years minimum in the future
• Initiate and manage cross departmental / channel communications, product feedback with sales partners, and inputs from the regional teams to ensure Oakley has innovative, premium, technical products that drive sales to meet corporate goals
• Support in the collection building and product management by briefing creative teams on direction, forecast, target FOBs, product features and price positioning working within the product development and sales calendar to meet deadlines to ensure the timely execution of the product line
• Work closely with the Product Development team during internal prototype reviews to manage costs and margins in support of the category manager
• Lineplan management skills, including detail-oriented data entry, tracking SKU efficiency, productivity a must to targeted company goals
• Partners with Sales, Marketing, Design, and Development teams to create compelling, brand authentic, and sport performance-centric product stories, from brief to GTM
• Support in the creation of documents aimed at the global product design review meetings, and support in the presentation of collections to the Sales and marketing team and/or direct client presentations during the product development cycle and at regional and global Sales meetings
• Organize complex data fields, documents and work flows to be efficient, precise, and timely
• Participate in the sourcing, building and partnership for Collaborations and Special Projects with some of the most exciting brands, sports personalities, et al. in the world
• Actively maintains running dialog within the Merchandising team to ensure consistency and internal alignment on expectations and deliverables
• Main requirements
• Degree in Marketing, Economics, Business, Merchandising, Fashion/Clothing Management or related field.
• Alternatively, a proven track record, of at least 3-4+ years’ experience preferably in the sports industry would be considered.
• Experience in product merchandising and development.
• Excellent Excel, Windows and Powerpoint skills, Illustrator and/or Photoshop and/or In Design experience a plus
• Deep interest and knowledge of the sport (Bike and/or Snow) market in a professional and/or personal capacity is appreciated.
• Strong Analytical skills, problem solving, critical thinking, and creative attitude.
• Ability to build strong relationships externally as internally
• Presentation skills, especially to large groups
• Capacity to deal with and resolve complex situations
• Ability to communicate effectively, not afraid to ask questions
• What’s in it for you
• Access to our cutting-edge learning platform, Leonardo, and personalized development programs to help you grow professionally and personally.
• Enjoy flexible work conditions, health insurance coverage, ticket restaurants, internal rooftop canteen.
• Access special offers for employees on a vast range of eyewear, eye care products, and fashion apparel, so you can enjoy our world-class brands firsthand.
• Enjoy our Disconnect Program a holistic approach to work-life balance, including initiatives for mental health, yoga, jogging sessions, and more, designed to help you recharge and stay healthy.
• Salary Package
• Performance Bonus: An additional Management by Objectives (MBO) bonus as percentage of the annual gross salary.
• Supplementary Health insurance coverage
• Supplementary Pension Plan
• Access to the Essilor Luxottica Corporate Welfare Catalog
• Transportation – Discounted pass
• Meal Vouchers as per company guidelines
• Exclusive employee discounts on company products
• Company-provided laptop and mobile phone
• Our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion commitment

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

We celebrate diversity and provide equal opportunities to all, regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic that makes us unique.

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