Category Manager, Promotional & Branded Merchandise

About the role Tag is seeking a category management professional and subject matter expert to lead promotional and branded merchandise sourcing with experience in the Beauty sector. You will own category strategy, develop the supplier portfolio and deliver measurable commercial value while protecting product quality, brand standards and launch timelines. Working with Strategic Sourcing, analytics, account teams and operational buyers, you will guide product and sourcing decisions for launches, gift with purchase programs and promotional campaigns. Category scope includes but is not limited to: Bags and pouches , including cosmetic bags, toiletry bags, travel pouches and totes. Gifts and accessories , including mirrors, organizers and branded lifestyle accessories. Professional accessories for beauty advisors, makeup artists and salon professionals. Promo packs , including gift sets, branded kits, promotional packaging and kitting. Promotional textiles , including towels, headbands, wraps, aprons and branded apparel. Category strategy and commercial ownership Develop and execute category plans using spend analysis, client demand, supplier capabilities and market intelligence. Identify opportunities for cost improvement, innovation, consolidation and supply resilience. Build the right mix of manufacturers, stockists, decorators and agencies. Choose sourcing routes based on customization, order volume, lead time, quality, service and total cost. Lead RFPs, supplier evaluations, pricing analysis and negotiations. Establish competitive rate cards and supplier agreements, including payment terms, service commitments and other commercial benefits. Evaluate total landed cost, including materials, tooling, decoration, packaging, testing, freight and duties. Challenge cost drivers and recommend alternatives that preserve the intended brand experience. Own category financial performance. Agree targets with leadership and Finance, validate savings and commercial contributions, and report progress against the category plan. Technical expertise and stakeholder partnership Act as the subject matter expert on all promotional merchandise. Advise on materials, construction, decoration, packaging, sampling and production feasibility, with particular depth in Beauty space products like bags, pouches and textiles. Translate creative briefs into clear specifications and sourcing recommendations. Work with suppliers and account teams through prototypes, preproduction samples and approval requirements to protect quality and launch dates. Bring relevant product trends, materials and supplier capabilities to account teams and clients. Support pitches, challenge impractical requirements constructively and coach operational buyers on category decisions. Supplier performance and governance Identify, qualify and onboard suppliers with Vendor Governance, Legal, and Finance teams. Assess capacity, production locations, subcontracting, financial stability and continuity risks. Set supplier KPIs, lead business reviews and manage corrective actions. Support supplier transitions and resolve significant quality, delivery or commercial escalations with account teams. Ensure supplier agreements and production plans address client requirements, product testing, responsible sourcing, traceability and applicable compliance obligations. Assess sustainable alternatives with supporting supplier evidence. Required experience and expertise At least five years of experience in promotional or branded merchandise, including hands-on experience supporting beauty brands and relevant product categories. Demonstrated category management ownership, including category plans, supplier portfolio decisions, contracts and measurable commercial outcomes. Experience limited to transactional buying or purchase order management is insufficient. Deep understanding of the distinct roles of manufacturers, stockists, decorators and agencies, including their capabilities, cost structures, margi…

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