Category Manager

About the Opportunity

We’re looking for a Category Manager on a Maternity Leave contract until June 2027, to join our Merchandise team at our Heatherton National Support Office, owning one of the most commercially critical categories in the DIY space.

With the support of a Category Assistant, you’ll work with one of the largest supplier groups, requiring strong relationship management, clear communication and a hands‑on approach. This is a fantastic role for someone with strong understanding of category fundamentals and the energy to manage a fast‑moving, operationally complex portfolio.

What you’ll be doing

• Owning the end‑to‑end performance of a sizeable category
• Managing a large and diverse supplier base from major brands to small business owners
• Partnering closely with stores to manage ranging and product set‑up in system
• Handling high supplier engagement, queries and issue resolution with a practical, solutions‑focused mindset
• Ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, particularly across chemicals and weed control
• Using customer trends and store insights to guide ranging, availability and category decisions

You’re Likely a Match If You have

• Experience in Category Management, Buying or Merchandise within retail or FMCG
• Strong commercial judgement and confidence managing high‑volume categories
• Experience working with large numbers of suppliers, including smaller or less‑commercial operators
• The ability to manage complexity, seasonality and competing priorities
• Solid decision‑making skills with a practical, hands‑on approach
• Strong communication skills and the energy to stay on top of a busy supplier portfolio

What’s on offer

We’re proud to offer a workplace that supports your well‑being, growth, and belonging:

📚 Career Growth: Endless learning and development opportunities
🌈 Inclusive Culture: Bronze Employer for LGBTQ Inclusion
⚖️ Neutral Pay Gap: Gender pay gap under 5% (WGEA 2024–2025)
🧠 Mental Health: Gold accreditation by Mental Health Australia
🏡 Flexibility: Flex Ready and Family Friendly Workplace accredited

About Us

At Total Tools & Hardware Group (Part of Metcash), we’re more than just a group of hardware and tool retailers — we’re a national network helping build stronger communities.

Backed by trusted brands like Mitre 10, Total Tools, and Home Timber & Hardware, we support independently owned, joint venture, and company‑owned stores across Australia. With a strong focus on local ownership and expert advice, we help tradies, builders, and DIYers tackle every job with confidence.

This role is being managed directly by our internal Talent Acquisition team. We respectfully request that recruitment agencies do not submit profiles or make contact regarding this opportunity. 

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