Category Manager (m/f/d) Outdoor and Bike – Mannheim, Germany
Category: Buying & Merchandising – Sports & Lifestyle
Industry: Fashion & Lifestyle
Location: Mannheim, Germany (On-site)
About the Role
We are looking for a Category Manager (m/f/d) Outdoor and Bike to join the largest sports department store in Germany. In this key role, you will independently manage the purchasing of third-party brands across both retail and online channels, shape assortments, and drive performance through data-driven decision-making and creative strategies.
Responsibilities
- Independent purchasing of third-party brands for retail stores and e-commerce channels
- Budget planning and monthly limit reporting in alignment with the Head of Buying, considering all relevant KPIs
- Creative assortment design and optimization
- Market analysis and proactive identification of trends, new suppliers, and growth opportunities
- Leading and participating in supplier negotiations and condition discussions
- Merchandise planning and reordering with active in-season management to optimize KPIs and achieve defined targets
- Generating ideas for online shop optimization and providing key input for marketing activations
Requirements
- Completed degree with a focus on Business Administration or comparable qualification
- Minimum of 3 years’ professional experience in purchasing third-party brands
- Experience working with a pure player or multi-channel retailer
- Strong analytical and numerical skills
- High fashion affinity and understanding of diverse target groups
- Strong negotiation skills, team player mindset, and hands-on working style
- Affinity for outdoor sports (textiles, hardware, and footwear)
- Fluency in German and English (spoken and written)
What We Offer
- A key position in the largest sports department store in Germany
- Responsibility for significant purchasing volumes with high visibility
- An inspiring, trend-driven working environment with career development opportunities
Benefits
Our client offers a variety of benefits within a dynamic and innovative retail environment. We would be happy to share details with you in a personal conversation.
Application Process
Are you ready to take on a strategic role in Buying & Merchandising? We look forward to receiving your application! Please submit your documents today, including your salary expectations.