Johannesburg: National Category Manager – IT Supplies & Hardware posted by DataFin Recruitment

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Category Manager – IT Supplies & Hardware to join our team at DataFin Recruitment. As a National Category Manager, you will be responsible for driving sales growth and category development across all regions, while maintaining strong relationships with key customers and suppliers. Your role will require strategic planning, excellent communication skills, and the ability to influence without direct authority.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement national sales strategies to grow the IT Hardware & Supplies category across all regions.
• Drive achievement of national sales targets and gross profit objectives.
• Lead the sales strategy for their key target customer base while working and aligning with the regional sales teams.
• Conduct regional performance analysis and implement tailored strategies to address gaps and optimise growth.
• Collaborate with regional and branch sales managers to execute national plans at local levels.
• Identify and capitalise on new business opportunities and untapped markets.
• Maintain regular contact with key accounts nationally to ensure customer satisfaction and identify upselling opportunities.
• Monitor national portfolio reports (buying patterns, non-buyers, trends) and drive immediate response strategies.
• Analyse historical and projected sales data to anticipate future business requirements.
• Support the commercial tender process by contributing product insights, pricing strategies, and supplier collaboration.
• Plan and implement national marketing campaigns, promotions, and category events to boost brand visibility and sales.
• Ensure alignment and execution of promotional activity across all sales channels (retail, commercial, online).
• Benchmark pricing nationally and ensure competitive positioning.
• Provide national oversight of retail merchandising and in-store promotional compliance.
• Lead market research efforts to track consumer behaviour and competitor trends.
• Collaborate with the national marketing team to develop category-specific campaigns and digital content.

Requirements

• Advanced Microsoft Excel and data analysis capabilities.
• Working knowledge of ERP systems.
• Solid understanding of IT Supplies/Hardware product landscape.
• Ability to conduct market benchmarking and competitive price analysis.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel nationally.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years experience in IT or ICT sales/category management, in a national role.
• Experience in the ICT reseller or distribution channel is highly recommended.
• Tertiary qualification in Sales, Marketing, Business Management, or similar (preferred).
• Demonstrated track record of achieving sales growth and category development.