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Assistant Category Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Category Managers assist the Category Managers in maximizing the profitability of their assigned product lines. This involves product selection, line reviews, advertising, marketing ...

Assistant Category Managers assist the Category Managers in maximizing the profitability of their assigned product lines. This involves product selection, line reviews, advertising, marketing ...

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Assistant Category Manager information

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$40K

$54.1K

$89.5K

How much do assistant category manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant category manager in the United States is $54,064.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $57,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Assistant Category Managers?

Assistant Category Managers support the Category Manager in analyzing market trends, managing product assortments, and executing merchandising strategies within a specific category. They help with inventory management, vendor relations, pricing, and promotional activities to ensure the category meets sales and profitability goals. This role often involves data analysis, cross-functional collaboration, and assisting in the development of strategic plans to grow the assigned product category.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Category Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Category Manager, you need a solid background in business, marketing, or supply chain management, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in retail or merchandising. Familiarity with category management software, data analysis tools like Excel, and ERP systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with vendors and internal teams. These skills ensure informed decision-making and successful management of product categories to drive sales and profitability.

What is the difference between Assistant Category Manager vs Category Analyst?

AspectAssistant Category ManagerCategory Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or related field; experience in retail or supply chainBachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or related field; data analysis skills
Work EnvironmentRetail or consumer goods companies; cross-functional teamsData-driven roles; retail or supply chain departments
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in retail, FMCG, and consumer goods industriesUsed in retail, manufacturing, and supply chain sectors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level or supporting roles in category managementAnalyzing market data and sales trends within categories

The Assistant Category Manager supports category strategies, working closely with senior managers, while the Category Analyst focuses on data analysis and market research to inform decisions. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in responsibilities, with the assistant role being more operational and the analyst role more analytical.

How does an Assistant Category Manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive category performance?

Assistant Category Managers regularly work with teams such as marketing, supply chain, sales, and merchandising to support category growth. They help coordinate promotional activities, analyze sales data, and ensure that inventory aligns with demand forecasts. Strong communication and project management skills are essential, as the role often involves gathering input from various departments and ensuring alignment on strategy. Collaborating with these teams not only boosts category performance but also provides valuable exposure to different aspects of the business, supporting professional development.
More about Assistant Category Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Category Manager jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Category Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Category Manager jobs? The most popular types of Category Manager jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Category Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Category Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Category Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Category Manager jobs are:
Infographic showing various Assistant Category Manager job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,064 per year, or $26 per hour.
Assistant Category Manager

Assistant Category Manager

Lifetime Brands

Garden City, NY

$55K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

About Mikasa Hospitality:


Mikasa Hospitality is a premier brand in the hospitality industry, providing top-tier tableware and buffetware to hotels, restaurants, and event venues in North America. Our commitment to quality, design, and sustainability is reflected in every product we offer. As we continue to expand our product offerings, we are seeking a motivated and dynamic Assistant Category Manager to join our team and contribute to the success of our brand.


Job Summary:
The Assistant Category Manager will play a key role in supporting the category manager and president in the strategic development and growth of our product categories. This role is perfect for someone passionate about product management, market analysis, and supply chain operations. The Assistant Category Manager will assist in identifying trends, optimizing product assortments, managing supplier relationships, and driving category performance. This is an excellent opportunity for a driven individual looking to develop a career in category management and procurement within the hospitality industry.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Category Analysis & Reporting: Assist in tracking and analyzing sales data, market trends, and competitive landscape to identify growth opportunities and challenges within assigned product categories.
  • Product Assortment & Selection: Support the Category Manager in curating and expanding product assortments to meet customer demands and align with market trends, ensuring products are innovative, competitive, and aligned with Mikasa Hospitality's brand vision.
  • Supplier Management: Help maintain positive relationships with suppliers, assist with price negotiations, manage product inquiries, and coordinate with suppliers to ensure timely product delivery and quality standards.
  • Inventory & Stock Management: Collaborate with the supply chain and inventory teams to manage stock levels, forecast demand, and minimize excess inventory or stockouts.
  • Product Launch & Promotion: Assist in planning and executing product launches and promotions, working closely with the marketing and sales teams to ensure alignment on messaging, positioning, and timelines.
  • Cross-Department Collaboration: Work closely with sales, marketing, and logistics teams to support category initiatives and ensure effective product placement and availability.
  • Market Intelligence: Stay informed about industry trends, competitor activities, and customer needs to provide actionable insights and recommendations to the Category Manager.
  • Administrative Support: Provide general administrative support to the category management team, including preparing reports, maintaining product catalogs, and updating product information.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
  • 1-2 years of experience in a category management, procurement, or retail buying role, preferably within the hospitality or consumer goods industry.
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make informed decisions.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to work cross-functionally with different teams.
  • Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple tasks
    simultaneously.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Excel and other data analysis tools; experience with ERP systems is a plus.
  • Passion for the hospitality industry and keen interest in product trends and innovation.


Preferred Skills:

  • Knowledge of the hospitality industry, particularly in the area of tableware, kitchenware, r similar products.
  • Experience with vendor and supplier management.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive mindset.
    Benefits:
  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Opportunities for career development and growth within a dynamic and innovative company.
  • A collaborative and inclusive working environment with a focus on employee well-being and work-life balance.

If you are passionate about the hospitality industry, have an eye for market trends, and are eager to contribute to the growth of an established brand, we encourage you to apply for the Assistant Category Manager position at Mikasa Hospitality.

Salary Range- $55,000.00 to $60,000.00