Category Manager

Description DIVE IN TO A NEW CAREER WITH LESLIE'S: Founded in 1963, Leslie's is the largest and most trusted direct-to-consumer brand in the U.S. pool and spa care industry. We serve the aftermarket needs of residential and professional consumers with an extensive and largely exclusive assortment of essential pool and spa care products. We operate an integrated ecosystem of 900+ retail locations, backyard service and repair, a robust digital platform, and manufacturing and distribution divisions across 35+ states—enabling consumers to engage with Leslie’s whenever, wherever, and however they prefer to shop. With over 60 years of providing best-in-class products and solutions to our customers, there is nothing that we value more than the development and growth of our team. We strive to create a positive and fun atmosphere where our Team Members feel valued and are enthusiastic about the contributions they make to the success of Leslie's. This position is not open to agency submissions. This position is based at our corporate office in Phoenix, AZ, and follows a hybrid work schedule. Remote work is not available for this role. Candidates must reside within commuting distance, as relocation assistance is not provided. Additionally, applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future employer-sponsored visa support. Job Overview: The Category Manager is responsible for executing category strategies that drive sales, profitability, and customer satisfaction. This role utilizes category management principles, data analysis, and market insights to optimize product assortment, pricing, and inventory performance across all channels. The Category Manager partners cross-functionally with merchandising, marketing, operations, and suppliers to ensure alignment on category initiatives and deliver strong business results. Responsibilities: Execute category strategies to drive sales growth, margin improvement, and market competitiveness Analyze category performance, customer trends, and market data to identify opportunities Support the development of assortment plans, pricing strategies, and promotional activities Achieve or exceed sales, gross margin, and inventory targets Monitor and manage category budgets, including supply expenses Support efforts to increase customer count and average purchase per customer (APC) Manage product assortment, ensuring the right mix of items to meet customer demand Partner with merchandising and operations teams to ensure effective product placement and availability Support seasonal planning and product lifecycle management Build and maintain relationships with vendors and suppliers Assist in negotiating pricing, terms, and promotional opportunities Coordinate with vendors to ensure product availability and performance Support omni-channel initiatives, including in-store and online category execution Assist in developing content and communication materials for digital and affiliate channels Help manage affiliate programs and online service offerings Partner with internal teams including marketing, supply chain, and operations to execute category plans Act as a point of contact for category-related initiatives and projects Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, or related field 3+ years of experience in category management, merchandising, or a related role Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Experience working with data, reporting, and performance metrics Excellent communication and organizational skills Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment Preferred Skills Proficiency in Excel and data analysis tools Experience with inventory management or ERP systems Knowledge of retail or consumer product industries Strong attention to detail and project management skills Leslie's provides a robust benefits package, including: Comprehensive medical, pharmacy, dental, & vision plan options. Health savings account (with enrollment in the high deductible health plan option). Health & dependent care flexible spending accounts. Company-paid basic life and AD&D insurance. Voluntary supplemental life insurance. Company-paid short-term disability and voluntary long-term disability insurance. Pre-tax and Roth 401(k) with company match. Paid vacation, sick, and bereavement leave. Paid holidays, including a floating personal day. Employee assistance and wellness programs. Earned Wage access is available, allowing early access to a portion of your earned wages before payday. Product discounts at Leslie’s Retail stores. Leslie’s recognizes a critical component to our continued success is our people. Leslie’s is proud to have a culture of inclusion that seeks to celebrate and embrace the different backgrounds and perspectives that help drive our success and support team members in developing and growing with us. We aim to create a workplace where all team members feel welcomed and valued and inspire each other every day.