Category Optimization & Allocation Specialist

Job Purpose:Drive optimal category assortment and allocation decisions to maximize sales, improve stock efficiency and enhance overall category performance across stores.Job Descriptions: 1.Category OptimizationAssortment Strategy: Analyze category performance, identify assortment gaps and propose category additions, removals or replacements.Data-Driven Insights: Use data analysis to create and refine assortment strategies that improve category performance.Scenario Simulation: Conduct "what-if" simulations to predict the impact of assortment changes.Automation & Tools: Support the development and use of automated tools and dashboards for assortment planning and optimization.Performance Measurement: Track the impact of optimization decisions on sales, turnover and stock efficiency.2.Category AllocationStock Allocation: Allocate stock to stores based on demand forecasts, store capacity and sales trends.Replenishment: Ensure stock replenishment is timely and accurate to avoid stockouts and overstocking.Demand Alignment: Use sales and demand forecasts to adjust allocation decisions in real-time.Stock Efficiency: Minimize stockouts and overstock while optimizing store-level inventory performance.Reporting & Analysis: Produce reports on stock availability, allocation performance and sell-through rates for internal stakeholders.Collaboration & CommunicationCollaborate with supply chain, merchandising, and retail teams to ensure proper execution of assortment and allocation strategies.Coordinate with IT, analytics, and system development teams to enhance and automate allocation and optimization tools.Job Requirements:Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Data Analytics, Economics or related field.0-4 years in category management, assortment planning, allocation or supply chain roles.Retail, e-commerce, FMCG or related industry experience preferred.Proficiency in data analysis tools (Excel, Power BI). Ability to work with large datasets using SQL & Python.Ability to identify assortment opportunities, recommend category adjustments and optimize inventory performance.Attention to Detail: Track in stock, sales and category performance to ensure timely action.Strong problem-solving skills to identify issues, create action plans and drive continuous improvement.Strong communication skills to present data-driven decisions to cross-functional teams.Ability to handle multiple priorities (assortment, allocation, and reporting) simultaneously.