Job Description

Role Responsibilities:

The Category Manager / Category Head - Footwear is responsible for owning the end-to-end


category lifecycle including product strategy, assortment planning, vendor management,


pricing, margins, and sell-through performance for Men's / Women's / Kids Footwear. The role


drives category growth, profitability, and brand positioning in line with the company's business


objectives.



A. Category Strategy Planning
Define and execute category strategy aligned with brand vision and annual business
plans
Build seasonal assortment plans based on trends, consumer insights, and historical data Identify whitespace opportunities and new sub-categories Own category P L including topline, margin, markdowns, and inventory returns

B. Product Range Development
Lead footwear range development across styles, silhouettes, materials, and price points Work closely with design, sourcing, and merchandising teams Ensure product relevance across fashion, comfort, quality, and price-value equation Finalize product briefs, pricing architecture, and range depth

C. Vendor Sourcing Management
Identify, onboard, and manage domestic international footwear vendors Negotiate cost, MOQs, lead times, and commercial terms Ensure compliance to quality standards, delivery timelines, and ethical sourcing norms Drive cost efficiencies without compromising product quality

D. Pricing, Margin Inventory Management
Define MRP, landed cost targets, and margin benchmarks Monitor sell-through, ageing inventory, and stock cover Plan markdowns, liquidation strategies, and EOSS participation Optimize inventory productivity and reduce slow-moving SKUs

E. Sales Performance Channel Alignment
Drive category performance across Offline and Online Work closely with sales, planning, and operations teams Support VM, store staff training, and product knowledge sessions Analyze weekly / monthly category performance reports

F. Trend Market Intelligence
Track global local footwear trends, competitor benchmarks, and consumer behaviour Use data and market insights to guide range refresh and innovation Attend trade fairs, vendor shows, and market visits as required

Skills and Qualifications:

Strong category commercial acumen Deep understanding of footwear construction, materials, and costing Data-driven decision making Vendor negotiation and relationship management Trend sensitivity with strong consumer understanding Leadership cross-functional collaboration

Qualification Experience

Bachelor's degree in Fashion / Business / Retail (preferred) 6-10 years of experience for Category Manager * Prior experience in footwear category (Men / Women / Kids) is mandatory