The Category Manager position at Worldwide is responsible for the continued development and implementation of merchandise programs and for impeccable customer service to our 300+ retailers throughout the country. Successful candidates will guide overall planning and coordinate all aspects of the development of a category. Our Category Managers must have experience in anticipating trends and customer needs, and more importantly putting together aggressive programs with all relevant vendors in the industry. The ability to develop relationships is essential in accomplishing this. The Category Manager works closely with senior leadership and cross functional departments throughout the company to produce two large trade shows each year. This role aids in sales growth for our members while ensuring alignment with company core values, member demand, and—when applicable—regulatory and compliance requirements.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Merchandising and/or at least five years’ work experience in related fields
• Prior work with a licensed firearm dealer or distributor
• Retail or wholesale buying experience in regulated industries
• Experience purchasing firearms or controlled products for resale
• Strong knowledge of ATF rules, FFL operations, and firearm transfer laws
• Product and retail management or wholesale experience for shooting sports categories
• Competency in developing business plans and strategies for executing tasks to grow a business
• Exceptional customer service, leadership, and written & verbal communication skills
• Effective negotiating and organizational skills, attention to detail and problem solving
• Proficiency with all Microsoft applications
• An energetic self-starter who enjoys new challenges with the ability to prioritize and multi-task is a must
• Proficiency in large group presentations
• Excellent work history indicating stability and growth
• Desire to work in a collaborative team environment as well as work independently
• Work habits must include accuracy, efficiency, thoroughness, timeliness, and punctuality

Specific Duties/Responsibilities:

• Build and maintain relationships with independent retail owners and buyers
• Maintain vendor portfolio and vendor management for Shooting Sports
• Analyze vendor data with advanced knowledge of Microsoft applications and working with an extensive range of suppliers and independent retail stores
• Negotiate with vendors to produce solid programs for members such as discounted pricing, shipping & payment terms, rebates, etc. to increase business with existing and new vendors that will keep our retailers competitive.
• Tradeshow preparation and execution include vendor registration, negotiating deals, producing a show catalog, sample collecting, setting visual product displays, and presenting category programs and deals to the membership.
• Lead and work with the member category committees.
• Analyze market trends and seek new growth opportunities in the industry.
• The ability to understand and act on business situations to achieve positive outcomes.
• Must be willing to travel to company trade shows, national trade shows, vendor headquarters, and member retail locations. Travel represents approximately 10-15% of time commitment.
• Compliance with ATF federal, state and local regulations and FFL requirements
• Maintain accurate records for Worldwide audits and ATF inspections
• Verify vendors are properly licensed and authorized
• Stay current on firearms laws and regulatory changes
• Other duties as assigned.

 Work Conditions:

• Additional hours may be required to fulfill job responsibilities during peak seasons
• Sitting 6-8 hours during a typical workday
• During travel and trade shows, additional walking and standing will be required
• May occasionally lift or move up to 35 pounds

Benefits: 

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Hybrid work schedule
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

About Worldwide Buying Group

Worldwide Buying Group is a 70-year buying cooperative that works with hundreds of independent retailers across the United States. Our membership is made up of closely held/privately owned retailers with well-established reputations in their local communities. Our mission is dedicated to leveraging our collective buying power to maximize the growth and profitability of our independent retail store membership. We provide each of our members the tools and the knowledge to remain successful in today’s competitive retail landscape.

Connections working at Worldwide Buying Group