Product Category Specialist

JOB OVERVIEW:

Responsible for managing product categories including activities of new product review and implementation, current product line management including SKU rationalization, promotional activity, supplier relations, pricing and competitive analysis, catalog production and other projects as required. In addition, the PCS will be responsible for strategy development for the Specialty markets they represent.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• NEW PRODUCT ACTIVITIES:
• Manages the process of all new product submissions. Ensures necessary information is obtained from suppliers to facilitate a timely review.   Reviews all submissions, determining which will be accepted and/or rejected.
• Collaborates with VP or Director on accepted new products. Determines pricing, forecast and opening order quantities. Manages process of new item code creation and development of catalog copy.  Works closely with suppliers to develop a promotional plan to support a successful launch.
• CURRENT  PRODUCT LINE MANAGEMENT:
• Determines products and pricing to be featured in the monthly sale flyer, specialty flyer and category flyer for respective product categories and produce “cut-n-paste” layout for submission to Advertising team.  
• Negotiates buying deals with suppliers and oversees proper communication and implementation to Inventory Management.
• Reviews Marketing Product Classifications and item descriptions to ensure the integrity of product classification structure.
• Reviews Aruba Item master for accuracy of descriptions and TOC/STOC.
• Performs regular reviews of products identified by SKU Optimization for stocking, non-stocking and inventory returns.  Adds products to paper and electronic catalogs when necessary.
• Reviews and implements any selling price changes resulting from price pending reports.
• CATEGORY MANAGEMENT
• Develops marketing plans to increase category sales and market share.
• Develops strategies to increase sales of Henry Schein brand products.
• Provides guidance on additions to HSI Brand in respective categories.
• CATALOG PRODUCTION:
• Manages layout and presentation for respective categories in the annual HSD Merchandise Catalog and Specialty Catalogs.
• Performs competitive pricing analysis and determines selling prices of all products in the respective categories.
• SPECIALTY MARKETING ACTIVITIES
• Works with PCM team to ensure we have the most complete product offering we can. Look to suppliers for input and search out competitive information. Adds suppliers and products in a timely fashion to ensure inclusion in marketing vehicles.
• Manages pricing in all specialty groups to ensure competitiveness. Secure competitive pricing for significant competitors.  Makes sure all is entered in databases on time and complete. Provides summary reports on where we stand in relation to the market.
• Manages the production of the Specialty Sale Flyers and Annual Specialty Catalogs.
• Manages the merchandise offering at all specialty meetings and get commitments on supplier participation. At the specialty meetings, provides updates on activity, competitive activity and new product opportunities.
• Works with suppliers to ensure they are participating in all available marketing vehicles focused on the specialists. Identifies suppliers not participating and approach them to determine level of interest. Continually works all of the programs we have.
• Participates in any and all activities relating to the specialist customer.

SPECIFIC KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS: 

• Three to five years of combined marketing and/or sales experience, or the equivalent required.
• Strong PC skills including Microsoft Word and Excel. Must have good analytical skills and must have good communication skills. Must be able to multi-task and work in a team environment.

GENERAL SKILLS & COMPETENCIES: 

• Basic understanding of industry practices
• General proficiency with tools, systems, and procedures
• Basic planning/organizational skills and techniques
• Good decision making, analysis and problem solving skills
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Basic presentation and public speaking skills
• Basic interpersonal skills
• Developing professional credibility

WORK EXPERIENCE: 

Typically 2 to 4 years of related professional experience.

PREFERRED EDUCATION: 

Typically a Bachelor's Degree or global equivalent in related discipline.

TRAVEL / PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Travel typically less than 10%. Office environment. No special physical demands required.            

The posted range for this position is $55,630 to $86,922 which is the expected starting base salary range for an employee who is new to the role to fully proficient in the role. Many factors go into determining employee pay within the posted range including prior experience, current skills, location/labor market, internal equity, etc. 

This position is eligible for a bonus not reflected in the posted range.

Other benefits available include: Medical, Dental and Vision Coverage, 401K Plan with Company Match, PTO [or sick leave if applicable], Paid Parental Leave, Income Protection, Work Life Assistance Program, Flexible Spending Accounts, Educational Benefits, Worldwide Scholarship Program and Volunteer Opportunities.

Henry Schein, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, disability that can be reasonably accommodated without undue hardship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, citizenship, marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status. 

For more information about career opportunities at Henry Schein, please visit our website at: www.henryschein.com/careers