Category Manager

Overview

This role is based out of our headquarters in Torrance, CA.

HUSTLER Hollywood Entertainment, Inc. is seeking a professional and talented Category Manager. This position is a dynamic role that blends both product development leadership and category management for the HUSTLER Hollywood and Lovers brands. The ideal candidate will manage the end-to-end product development process, from concept through production of the branded apparel and lingerie program, while also overseeing the financial health and performance of a specific product category. Working closely with cross-functional teams, including the Director of Buying, Buyers, and Planning, this individual will ensure that product initiatives align with business goals, meet quality and cost targets, and contribute to the overall growth of the brand. This role also involves negotiating with vendors, monitoring inventory levels, and identifying new product opportunities to drive category success. The Senior Specialist will have a key influence on both product strategy and financial outcomes, with a focus on delivering results in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

Lead Product Development from Concept to Production

• Take full ownership of specific product categories, from initial concept through final production handoff.
• Manage the end-to-end product development process, ensuring timelines, quality standards, and cost targets are met.
• Partner with the Director of Buying and Buyers to align on line plan strategies and long-term planning, to ensure categorical success and align with business goals.
• Develop and maintain detailed product development line plans, tech packs, time and action calendars, and project tracking systems.
• Review pre-production samples to ensure quality standards are met and keep development on track.
• Communicate all pre-production notes and sample adjustments clearly and in a timely manner.
• Communicate all visual and non-fit-related comments to vendors and review comments with buyers/Director of Buying.
• Oversee the packaging process to ensure alignment with brand standards and product goals in partnership with the Brand team.
• Facilitate communications and obtain necessary approvals for licensed products to ensure alignment with the brand's vision and goals.
• Lead negotiations with vendors and factories to meet cost and MOQ targets, ensuring favorable outcomes for the business.

Manage Category Performance and Financial Success

• Monitor private label sales and inventory levels, ensuring timely replenishment or replacement of styles as needed.
• Analyze business performance in partnership with buyers and planners, uncovering areas for product development and growth.
• Identify new opportunities for product development that drive financial growth and category success.

Collaborate Cross-Functionally to Ensure Product Alignment and Execution

• Act as the primary internal liaison across departments for new product launches, ensuring alignment on progress updates and timelines.
• Work closely with vendors to troubleshoot and resolve any development or production challenges.
• Coordinate and track samples for photoshoots, marketing, and other cross-functional needs.
• Conduct market research, analyze competitors, and stay ahead of emerging trends to inform product strategy.

To be successful in this role, the ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:

• 5 years of experience in product development and buying, particularly soft goods within a retail chain environment.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proven track record of driving successful product development initiatives and delivering on sales goals.
• Strong analytical, financial, and strategic thinking abilities, with a demonstrated ability to make data-driven decisions.
• Excellent negotiating skills, with a history of successfully achieving favorable outcomes with vendors and suppliers.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams.
• Detail-oriented and highly organized, able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proactive problem-solving skills with a results-oriented mindset.
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with cross-functional teams and external partners.
• Experience working directly with international factories is a plus.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook (advanced skills preferred).