Job Description

National Category Manager (ITH/ITS) (JHB) Media/Marketing/Sales ~ Supply Chain/Logistics
Johannesburg - Gauteng - South Africa
ENVIRONMENT:
DRIVE category growth, profitability, and strategic development of the IT Hardware and Supplies product range across all regions of a leading Retailer as its next National Category Manager. This will include overseeing performance across retail, commercial, contract, and tender channels. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on, data-driven individual capable of operating at both strategic and operational levels, with the ability to lead initiatives nationally, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and develop strong supplier and customer relationships. You must preferably have a tertiary qualification in Sales/Marketing or similar with 610 years experience in IT or ICT Sales/Category Management, in a national role, Advanced Excel, Data Analysis capabilities, working knowledge of ERP systems, a solid understanding of IT Supplies/Hardware product landscape & the ability to conduct market benchmarking and competitive price analysis.
DUTIES:
Category Sales & Business Development (National Scope)

• Develop and implement national sales strategies to grow the IT Hardware & Supplies category across all regions.
• Drive achievement of national sales targets and gross profit objectives.
• Lead the sales strategy for our key target customer base while working and aligning with the Regional Sales teams
• Conduct regional performance analysis and implement tailored strategies to address gaps and optimise growth.
• Collaborate with Regional and Branch Sales Managers to execute national plans at local levels.
• Identify and capitalise on new business opportunities and untapped markets.
• Maintain regular contact with key accounts nationally to ensure customer satisfaction and identify upselling opportunities.
• Monitor national portfolio reports (buying patterns, non-buyers, trends) and drive immediate response strategies.
• Analyse historical and projected sales data to anticipate future business requirements.
• Support the commercial tender process by contributing product insights, pricing strategies, and supplier collaboration.

National Marketing & Promotions -

• Plan and implement national marketing campaigns, promotions, and category events to boost brand visibility and sales.
• Ensure alignment and execution of promotional activity across all sales channels (retail, commercial, online).
• Benchmark pricing nationally and ensure competitive positioning.
• Provide national oversight of retail merchandising and in-store promotional compliance.
• Lead market research efforts to track consumer behaviour and competitor trends.
• Collaborate with the National Marketing team to develop category-specific campaigns and digital content.

Customer Engagement & Relationship Management -

• Build and maintain national customer relationships to enhance loyalty and retention.
• Address escalated customer queries or complaints swiftly and effectively.
• Provide national sales teams with training, product information, and support tools.
• Identify and respond to evolving customer needs across all regions.

Product Strategy & Category Development -

• Create and implement a national category development roadmap.
• Source and select new products aligned with customer demand and strategic goals.
• Drive product performance and lifecycle management in collaboration with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Conduct supplier negotiations at a national level to secure optimal pricing, terms, and support.
• Monitor and manage product pricing to maximise margins and market competitiveness.

Stock & Supplier Management -

• Control and oversee national stock levels to ensure availability and reduce slow-moving inventory.
• Liaise with suppliers and distribution centres to manage national inventory and resolve stock discrepancies.
• Drive supplier performance and foster strategic relationships to enhance category competitiveness.
• Lead national markdown strategies and stock reallocation plans.

Key Account & SBD Management -

• Manage National Supplies Big Deals (SBDs), contracts, and pricing agreements.
• Ensure consistent and timely reporting to senior leadership on SBD-related matters.
• Collaborate with the Contracts and Sales Support teams to ensure accurate and timely SBD implementation.
• Visit strategic accounts nationally to maintain and expand relationships.

Reporting & Administration -

• Prepare and submit national category performance reports (weekly, monthly, quarterly).
• Analyse sales and financial data to make strategic recommendations.
• Track and report on new business development and lost business trends nationally.
• Provide reports as requested distributors and supply partners as and when required.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Tertiary qualification in Sales, Marketing, Business Management, or similar (preferred).
• Minimum 610 years experience in IT or ICT Sales/Category Management, in a national role.
• Experience in the ICT reseller or distribution channel is highly recommended.
• Demonstrated track record of achieving sales growth and category development.
• Strong knowledge of national retail, commercial, and contract sales environments.
• Experience managing supplier negotiations and national promotional execution.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel nationally.

Technical Requirements

• Advanced Microsoft Excel and Data Analysis capabilities.
• Working knowledge of ERP systems.
• Solid understanding of IT Supplies/Hardware product landscape.
• Ability to conduct market benchmarking and competitive price analysis.

ATTRIBUTES:

• Proven ability to operate at strategic, tactical, and operational levels.
• Advanced analytical and data interpretation skills.
• Strong planning, organisational, and project management abilities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Resilient, self-driven, and highly results oriented.
• Commercial acumen with a strong understanding of profitability levers.
• Strong interpersonal skills to engage cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.
• Ability to influence without direct authority and manage virtual teams.

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