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Category Leadership Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jobtailor

NY · On-site

$70 - $110/hr

Leads space management analysis and designs category shelf schematics following standardized planning processes * Collaborates with Sales partners to determine account priorities * Conducts space and ...

Ferrara

VP, Category Leadership

Chicago, IL · On-site

We are seeking a VP of Category Leadership & Management to join the Sales team, reporting to the Chief Customer Officer. This highly valued and influential role will help drive our organization ...

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Category Leadership information

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$36K

$93.4K

$134.5K

How much do category leadership jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for category leadership in the United States is $93,410.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is category leadership?

Category Leadership is a business strategy where a company aims to become the leading authority and preferred choice within a specific product category. This involves understanding market trends, consumer behaviors, and competitors, then leveraging this insight to drive growth, innovation, and profitability within that category. Category leaders often set industry standards, influence customer preferences, and collaborate closely with retailers to optimize product assortment, pricing, and promotions. The goal is to maximize the performance of both the category and the company’s brands.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in category leadership?

To thrive in Category Leadership, you need strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of category management principles, and relevant experience in retail or consumer goods, often supported by a degree in business or marketing. Familiarity with data analytics tools (such as Nielsen, IRI, or Tableau), planogram software, and advanced Excel is typically required. Strategic thinking, relationship-building, and strong communication are standout soft skills for influencing cross-functional stakeholders and driving category growth. These skills and qualities are essential for optimizing product assortments, maximizing sales, and fostering collaborative partnerships between manufacturers and retailers.

How does a category leadership professional typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive category growth?

Category Leadership professionals work closely with sales, marketing, supply chain, and analytics teams to develop and execute strategies that enhance category performance. They often lead cross-functional meetings to align on goals, share market insights, and coordinate promotional activities. Effective communication and the ability to influence without direct authority are essential, as they must balance the objectives of various stakeholders while keeping the category's overall growth as the top priority. This collaborative approach enables faster decision-making and more innovative solutions for both retailers and suppliers.

What is the difference between Category Leadership vs Category Manager?

AspectCategory LeadershipCategory Manager
Primary FocusStrategic vision and long-term growth of a product categoryDay-to-day management and execution of category plans
ResponsibilitiesSetting category strategy, innovation, and market positioningPricing, promotions, inventory, and sales performance
Required SkillsStrategic thinking, leadership, market analysisAnalytical skills, vendor management, operational execution
Work EnvironmentCross-functional teams, senior management, external partnersRetail stores, supply chain, marketing teams

Category Leadership involves setting the strategic direction for a product category, focusing on long-term growth and market positioning. In contrast, a Category Manager handles the daily operations, including pricing, promotions, and inventory management. Both roles require analytical skills, but Category Leadership emphasizes strategic vision, while Category Managers focus on execution and operational efficiency.

What is a category leadership job?

A category leadership job involves managing and developing a specific product category within a company, focusing on strategy, market analysis, and driving sales growth. Professionals in this role often collaborate with cross-functional teams, utilize data analysis tools, and require strong leadership and communication skills.
More about Category Leadership jobs

What cities are hiring for Category Leadership jobs?

Cities with the most Category Leadership job openings:

What job categories do people searching Category Leadership jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Category Leadership jobs are:

Category Leadership jobs near you
Infographic showing various Category Leadership job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $93,410 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Category Leadership Manager

Jobtailor

NY • On-site

$70 - $110/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities
  • Influences and manages all space management projects for assigned customer(s)
  • Leads space management analysis and designs category shelf schematics following standardized planning processes
  • Collaborates with Sales partners to determine account priorities
  • Conducts space and distribution opportunity analysis to optimize revenue and profit
  • Makes product addition and deletion recommendations by brand and package
  • Reports changes implemented including physical space gains/losses by brewer/brand
  • Provides input into assigned customers Annual Business Plan and Joint Business Planning process
Requirements
  • 1 – 2 years of space management experience
  • Expert knowledge of JDA Intactix or Apollo system usage and output
  • Average understanding of a variety of system output and application of measures within IRI, Nielsen, or SPINS syndicated and panel data
  • Above average user of Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
  • Available to travel a minimum of 20% of working time, including up to 5 hrs. driving time
  • 3+ years of space management experience preferred
  • 1 – 2 years of direct sales, merchandising, or retail store management experience preferred
  • 1 – 2 years of category management, consumer or shopper insights, or research experience preferred
Core Competencies

Demonstrates expertise in space management, utilizing JDA Intactix or Apollo systems to optimize shelf schematics and revenue opportunities. Collaborates effectively with sales teams and leverages data from IRI, Nielsen, or SPINS to inform strategic decisions.

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