What are the responsibilities and job description for the Category Manager - Bed Bath & Beyond position at Kirkland's, Inc.?
Overview
We’re looking for leaders who know how to drive results through strong vendor relationships, strategic assortment planning, and a deep understanding of the home customer.You’ll help build and manage businesses across bedding, bath, housewares, kitchen electrics, tabletop, storage & organization and beauty & personal care - categories that define how people live, cook, and create home.
Together, we’re rebuilding a beloved brand and reimagining what “everything home” means today.
The Retail Category Manager oversees a designated product category across retail channels, ensuring it aligns with customer needs and business goals. This role blends strategic planning, vendor negotiation, and performance analysis to maximize category growth and profitability.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement long-term strategies for assigned product categories, including assortment, pricing, and promotional plans.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, negotiate contracts, and secure favorable terms.
- Select and manage the product mix to meet customer demand and seasonal trends.
- Set competitive pricing strategies and coordinate promotional activities to boost sales.
- Monitor category KPIs such as sales, margin, inventory turnover, and customer engagement.
- Stay informed on industry trends, competitor activity, and consumer behavior to guide decision-making.
- Work with marketing, supply chain, and store operations to ensure cohesive execution of category initiatives.
- Communicates merchandising strategies to cross functional teams to ensure proper and timely execution of strategy.
- Optimize stock levels and manage product lifecycle from launch to markdown.
- Champion and demonstrate a commitment to The Brand House Collective Values
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, merchandising, or related field.
- 3–5 years in category management, merchandising, or retail buying.
- Proficiency in data analysis and performance metrics.
- Strong ability to negotiate with vendors and manage contracts.
- Financial acumen to manage budgets, optimize margins, and drive profitability across product categories.
- Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills.
- Familiarity with merchandising systems, Excel, and analytics platforms.
- Ability to work at a computer for extended periods of time
- Ability to travel