Some of what you will do:
The Category Manager is responsible for building successful go-to-market strategies, driving innovation, and managing sales, margin, and turnover for their categories within the designated channels assigned- B2B and/or stores and online. The Category Manager is responsible for the full scope of managing the product category portfolio. This includes supplier selection, product selection, and strategic negotiation. They are responsible for leading various projects and initiatives for their categories, providing guidance and inspiration to their Category Specialists and Centres of Excellence partners. They are responsible for ensuring that the department and overall company vision and brand identity are upheld through a differentiated and curated product assortment, with our customers' needs at the heart of their categories strategic focus.
Specifically, You Will:
Manage financial plans for our retail stores, online, and/or Business-to-Business banners.
Ensure the assigned portfolio’s go-to-market strategy is relevant and timely based on its respective channel.
Manage an extended aisle and dropship program through our e-commerce channel.
Build an assortment and execute promotional plans that are relevant to the respective channels.
Develop and execute, in coordination with our Own Brand Procurement and Product Development team, a strategic own brand strategy to differentiate our product offering.
Negotiate all vendor buying agreements between the company and respective suppliers.
Partner with the Pricing Centre Of Excellence (CoE) team to identify opportunities to maximize the sales and profit of the categories through price changes while remaining competitive in the market.
Develop and maintain vendor relationships and manage vendor agreements
Management of market development funds, product returns and inventory mix.
Purchasing of product for a category through the negotiation process.
Partner closely with Marketing in planning advertising and marketing programs to drive category results and increase customer awareness.
Some of what you need:
Post secondary degree/diploma with a focus on retail management, merchandising and purchasing or equivalent experience.
Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
Developing and implementing category strategies to drive growth and profitability.
Effective negotiation with suppliers to secure favorable terms and conditions.
Minimum of 5-7 years of category management experience preferably with a national retail chain or five years in the Staples Buyer Development Program.
Physical demands/working conditions:
Office environment – Hybrid, with 4 days onsite in Richmond Hill, subject to the hybrid policy.
Some of what you will get:
Associate discount
Health and Dental benefits
RRSP/DPSP
Performance bonuses
Learning & Development programs
And more...
About Us
Skills Required
- Post-secondary degree/diploma in retail management, merchandising, or purchasing, or equivalent experience
- Minimum of 5-7 years of category management experience (preferably with a national retail chain or Staples Buyer Development Program)
- Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions
- Experience developing and implementing category strategies to drive growth and profitability
- Effective negotiation skills with suppliers to secure favorable terms
Staples Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Staples and has not been reviewed or approved by Staples.
-
Wellbeing & Lifestyle Benefits — Wellbeing offerings are described as broad, including wellness reimbursements, emotional support and coaching, legal services, identity theft protection, and pet insurance. Employee discounts and select on-site amenities are also positioned as meaningful add-ons beyond basic coverage.
-
Leave & Time Off Breadth — Time-off provisions are presented as relatively expansive, including paid time off, company-recognized holidays, and a personal or flexible holiday option. Vacation that grows with tenure and PTO flexibility are highlighted as valued elements.
-
Inclusive Benefits Coverage — Healthcare benefits explicitly include gender-affirming care alongside medical, dental, and vision coverage. Family and caregiver programs also include support that references LGBTQ+ considerations and broader life-stage needs.
Staples Insights
What We Do
For nearly 40 years, Staples has been a trusted leader in delivering end-to-end workplace solutions for consumers and businesses of all sizes across a broad range of industries. The company provides a comprehensive portfolio of products, strategic solutions, and services including print and marketing, shipping, technology, and travel. Its specialized assortment includes high-quality office supplies, janitorial products, technology, furniture, and breakroom essentials, all supported by best-in-class supply chain capabilities and a dedicated team of experts committed to making the workday easier. Headquartered near Boston, Massachusetts, Staples operates throughout North America via direct B2B sales, e-commerce, and more than 900 retail stores. To learn more, visit your local U.S. Staples store, download the Staples app, explore Staples.com or StaplesBusiness.com, or follow @Staples on social media.
