Junior Category Manager in Training

About the role

Junior Category Manager in Training Opportunity

We have a fantastic opportunity within our Purchasing Team for a Junior Category Manager in Training! This dedicated 12-month program is designed to immerse a high-potential individual into the core functions of category management. The structure involves rotation through every category team within the Kogan.com Purchasing department. The primary goal is to build deep expertise in category principles, best practices, and to foster a true sense of category ownership. It represents a structured pathway to launch a sustainable career in purchasing.

The Junior Category Manager in Training will work in close partnership with the Head of Product Pillar. Together, they will manage specific assigned categories and support a variety of key initiatives. Responsibilities include active participation in sourcing projects, developing relationships with suppliers, and championing excellence in category performance. The role requires a constant focus on ensuring an optimal product range that delivers value to customers. This involves meticulous attention to product performance metrics and market dynamics.

Graduation from this intensive program equips the participant with a comprehensive skill set. Upon completion, they will be fully prepared to apply for a Junior Category Manager position within the Purchasing Department. The program is an ideal pathway for recent graduates eager to establish a career in Purchasing or Buying. It is also perfectly suited for an Assistant Category Manager or Buyers Assistant ready to advance their responsibilities. also, it welcomes candidates with a commercial background who are keen to transition into eCommerce purchasing and grow their experience in this dynamic field.

• Role Overview

This position is a critical development role within the Purchasing engine. The successful candidate will engage in structured learning while making tangible contributions to category health. The focus is on building capability through exposure, analysis, and measured impact. Participants will gain hands-on experience across the end-to-end purchasing cycle. The role demands intellectual curiosity, strong analytical skills, and a commitment to operational excellence. It is a launchpad for a long-term career in retail strategy and execution.

Key Responsibilities

A core duty involves orchestrating intake processes and constructing foundational category knowledge. This includes reviewing outcomes and compiling insights for distribution to key partners. The role requires active engagement across web commerce platforms. Here, the focus is on refining range decisions and tracking product metrics to ensure customer value. Participants will learn to balance data-driven analysis with market intuition.

The position entails constructing detailed sourcing proposals. This involves close collaboration with vendors and internal stakeholders to refine assortment options. The goal is to ensure a strong market fit and alignment with customer expectations. A significant part of the role is interpreting performance indicators. This analysis is used to assess range strength and adjust selections based on real-time demand signals.

Coordination with partners across the business is essential. The Junior Category Manager in Training will align promotional timing and stock availability. This collaboration is crucial to protect service levels and prevent stockouts or overstock situations. The role also involves guiding quality checks. This includes validating pricing accuracy and ensuring strict compliance with internal standards and guidelines.

Supporting internal review rituals is another key function. The incumbent will synthesize complex findings into clear, actionable recommendations. These recommendations are intended to drive continuous category refinement. Shipping practical insights is a core component of the learning process. The role requires documenting decisions and transferring this practical learning across purchasing pathways. Partnering with category specialists allows for the expansion of eCommerce understanding. It also provides a platform to test new category hypotheses in a live environment.

Requirements

To be considered for this opportunity, candidates must meet specific criteria. A fundamental requirement is the possession of three years of relevant experience. This experience should be in retail, buying, or a closely related field. An alternative pathway is provided for candidates with a commerce degree. Equivalent practical background in product management is also acceptable.

Candidates must demonstrate comfort and proficiency using spreadsheet tools. This is essential for organizing information, analyzing data, and monitoring results. Clear and concise communication in English is non-negotiable. The ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously while adhering to strict deadlines is mandatory.

Compensation and Location

The role is based in South Melbourne, Victoria. It is offered as a full-time position. The compensation package is competitive, with a range of $65,000 to $70,000 per year. This reflects the value placed on the skills and potential of the successful applicant.

Application Details**

This opportunity is open to a diverse range of candidates. It is perfect for a recent graduate looking to start a Purchasing or Buying career. It is also ideal for an Assistant Category Manager or Buyers Assistant ready to step up their career. Finally, it is a strong fit for a candidate with a commercial background looking to grow their eCommerce experience and transition into a Purchasing or Buying career.

Practical notes for applicants include confirming all details Specific application instructions and submission deadlines can be found there. Ensure all supporting documents are prepared in advance.