Category Manager - Victoria's Secret Stores - Columbus, OH

The Category Planning Manager is responsible for creating preseason Financial and Assortment architecture plans by sub brand, classification and tier for Victoria's Secret Stores. The position reports to the Director, Category Planning. No direct reports. Must possess the ability to:


Foster teamwork by being a valued team player and building good relationships across functional/division lines

Manage the execution of the Division?s responsibilities by removing obstacles, inspiring and motivating others, coordinating work efforts, and monitoring progress

Champion change, taking risks as needed and demonstrating flexibility

Influence product selection and distortions as part of the team, using your negotiating skills as appropriate and sharing your product knowledge without directing the process

Set high personal performance standards that deliver results, convey a sense of urgency and enthusiasm for the business, and help you achieve goals despite obstacles or opposition

Develop give-and-take relationships with others in a genuine, friendly manner, building consensus to get things done

Actively pursue growth and development opportunities, continually finding ways to improve

Communicate openly and directly, listening to others and speaking effectively Create preseason Financial Targets that align with company goals and financial architecture

Create Assortment Architecture that aligns with growth strategies laid out in the merchandise growth plans

Liaison with Merchants to create Brand Growth Plan (BGP), Strategic View Growth (SVG) and Strategic Line View (SLV) utilizing attribute planning

Plan critical attributes ensure growth and measuring performance to LY

Manage financial implications of multiple buy cycles

Analyze and recommend pricing strategy for categories, tiers and sub-brands

Plan multiple channels for right mix of product to meet financial goals

Influence Merchandise Planning team to meet financial and assortment targets

Partner with Merchandising, Finance and Center executives to meet corporate financial goals

Create Merchandise Hindsights to evaluate past performance and recommend changes

Creation of Financial Targets for product category, merchandise subbrands and tiered assortments

Create Assortment Architecture with EVP of Merchandising to set merchandise targets for critical assortment needs and fill assortment white space



7-10 years of Retail Merchandise Planning experience required

1-3 years of management or strategic planning preferred

Proficient Excel and Access skills required

Data Warehouse or Arthur Planning experience preferred

Demonstrated ability to handle multiple priorities and personalities

Excellent statistical/quantitative analysis skills with forecasting background preferred

Prefer knowledge of planning and allocation methodologies / systems

Excellent communication, prioritizing and problem-solving skills. Strong computer skills

Ability to be a team player and to foster a commitment to teamwork among other associates

Bachelors in finance or business related field, preferred

MBA, preferred



To be considered for this position and to view all career opportunities at Limited Brands, please visit our career web site at http://www.careers.limitedbrands.com









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