Assistant Category Manager

At RONA, our employees let their passion blossom every day. Our teams are driven by the desire to help people bring their projects to life and are committed to making a difference in the communities we serve.

We operate or service corporate and affiliated dealer stores. With a distinctive product and service offering and complementary store formats ranging from neighbourhood hardware stores to big box stores, our RONA+, RONA and Dick’s Lumber banners are well equipped to help meet the needs of all DIYers and contractors.

You’ve got the talent? We’ve got the tools! Here, your work and ideas will contribute to building a flourishing organization. Your voice will always be heard and valued. You’ll find career opportunities that live up to your ambitions and be able to further develop your unique set of skills.

So, if you’re looking to do what you love, we could be a perfect match.

Under the supervision of the Category Director, the Assistant Category Manager is responsible for managing the strategic product category portfolio across all banners. This includes supplier selection, product selection, and strategic negotiation. The Assistant Category Manager acts as a product specialist within their categories and is tasked with supporting business units in achieving the company’s shared goals.

Your role :

• Develop category strategies

• Select products according to the category strategies of each banner while promoting the development of the RONA private label

• Select products based on consumer needs

• Set retail prices in compliance with the company’s overall strategy and banner-specific strategies

• Participate in the development of sales budgets, margins, and inventory for the different banners

• Select flyer products and ensure a follow-up of surpluses, if applicable

• Analyze the performance of categories under their responsibility on a daily basis and implement action plans

• Constantly analyze trends for categories under their responsibility and ensure that new products are quickly and efficiently introduced

• Help develop supplier revenue budgets and conduct follow-ups

• Participate in the development of monthly merchandising directives for stores

• Negotiate optimal buying conditions with suppliers according to the specific needs of each banner

• Ensure the clear and comprehensive communication of merchandising plans and, more specifically, actions to take for listed and delisted products

• Participate in the development of planograms

• Ensure the absolute integrity of the multi-cost structure

• Assume responsibility for inventory management

• Optimize the distributor and retailer profit margin

• Manage staff from the business unit under their responsibility

The qualifications we are looking for :

• University degree (preferably in administration) and 5 to 10 years of experience in a similar position

• Knowledge of the industry

• Good knowledge of technological tools (e.g., Excel and Word)

• Basic knowledge of accounting

• Excellent negotiation skills

• Customer-oriented approach

• Analytical and information management skills

• Creativity and innovation

• Ability to work in a changing environment and under pressure

• Ability to meet deadlines

By joining the RONA family, you’ll enjoy many benefits, such as:

• A childcare centre that can accommodate up to 78 children

• A cafeteria with a delicious menu prepared by a dedicated chef, healthy options, as well as FARO Roasting Houses and Tim Hortons coffee stations

• Electric car charging stations

• A fitness centre, sports activities, and showers

• Exclusive employee discounts, plus a 10% discount on store merchandise (at all RONA locations)

• Benefits: retirement savings plan, annual bonuses, student incentive program, etc.

• Access to the GreenShield+ telemedicine platform, including virtual consultations with healthcare professionals and pharmacy services

• Career growth opportunities within the company

• An inclusive and safe working environment

• Promotion of work-life balance

• An employer that’s involved in the community

• And much more!

If selected for an interview, please advise our Human Resources team if you require accommodation during the interview and assessment process and we will work with you to meet your accessibility needs.

RONA is committed to encouraging diversity and inclusion. We are pleased to consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of race, colour, religion, sexual orientation, gender, nationality, age, disability, or any other protected status.