The Dufresne Group is currently seeking an Associate Category Manager for our Ashley Merchandising Team within our Home Office located at 147 Commerce Drive in Winnipeg, MB**.** This is an exciting opportunity for someone with a creative mindset and a passion for retail to learn about merchandising and marketing strategy under the guidance of an experienced team.

As an Associate Category Manager you will be responsible for category performance analysis, administrative support, and data management and accuracy. You will ensure data maintenance and data integrity of product information in the inventory system, including item numbers, pricing, and inventory to support the buying function.

The Dufresne Group is committed to investing in our team members; we offer:

• Market competitive wages;

• Comprehensive benefits plan and excellent employee discounts;

• Employer Sponsored Retirement Savings Plan;

• Career growth and continuous development;

• Respectful and family-oriented working environment with strong company values;

• The opportunity to work for one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies.

As the Associate Category Manager you will:

• Perform analysis, draw insights, and provide recommendations based on internal data sources, vendor insights, and market and competitor information.

• Ensure accurate capture of product information for the web (attributes and imagery).

• Complete effective and efficient processes and execute administrative activities surrounding the management of product SKUs, communicating marketing, and advertising plans, analysis, actioning, and reporting on inventory, sharing product information, and handling pricing for stores.

• Perform sales analysis to support establishing product lineup.

• Prepare reporting on Sales updates, including information on new products, price changes, discontinued items, etc.

• Provide reports upon request to support the analysis of business plans and to assist with developing category plans.

• Track and report on vendor promotional support programs (STAs).

As a successful candidate you will have the following:

• Post-secondary education in Business Administration, Marketing or a related field, or combination of related education and experience.
• Experience in category management, merchandising, or administration an asset.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to adhere to strict deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office products.