Department Manager, Category at MEC — NeverHard

The Opportunity As the Department Manager, Category, you are a key store leader accountable for driving strong business and member outcomes through effective product category leadership, operational execution, and people leadership. Reporting to the General Manager, you oversee assigned product categories and are responsible for store-floor assortment, inventory flow, merchandising execution, pricing, and visual standards. You lead and develop teams, partner with the Senior Staff Team, and use business insights to improve sales performance, inventory productivity, and in-store execution. What You’ll Be Responsible For Category & Merchandising Leadership Lead assigned product categories to deliver a compelling, market-relevant assortment Execute merchandising strategies and floor plans in alignment with Support Office direction Use product and sales insights to address performance gaps and capitalize on selling opportunities Ensure accurate pricing, signage, and presentation standards to support ease of shop Inventory & Availability Partner with ARA teams to secure product based on sell-through, inventory trends, and store needs Drive consistent replenishment and product availability across assigned categories Identify risks, overstocks, gaps, and opportunities using inventory and sales reporting People Leadership & Development Lead, coach, and develop category teams through training, feedback, and regular check-ins Identify skill gaps in product knowledge, merchandising, and inventory execution Support recruitment, onboarding, and performance management in partnership with the General Manager Foster an inclusive, respectful, and high‑engagement team environment Business & Store Operations Analyze category and store performance metrics to drive sales, margin, and inventory productivity Build business acumen within teams by connecting daily execution to store and category results Execute operational, visual merchandising, loss prevention, and health & safety standards Complete opening/closing duties and support daily store operations as required What You Bring 1–3 years of leadership experience in a retail or service environment with accountability for category operations and people leadership Strong operational and business acumen, with the ability to interpret KPIs and translate insights into action Experience with inventory management, merchandising execution, and retail systems (e.g., OMS, Microsoft D365, ADP) Demonstrated ability to coach and develop teams in fast‑paced, operationally complex environments Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to partner across store leadership teams Passion for outdoor activities and the outdoor lifestyle, with the ability to translate that passion into credible product leadership Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required Work Environment This is an active, hands‑on leadership role requiring regular presence on the sales floor and in back‑of‑house areas. The role includes standing, walking, lifting (up to 50 lbs), and navigating varied store environments while supporting teams and daily operations. Our Commitment to Inclusion MEC is an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive, respectful, and barrier‑free workplace. We value diversity and believe our teams are stronger when everyone feels safe, supported, and able to be themselves at work. Compensation The anticipated base salary range of this role is $48,100 to $60,200 annually. The exact salary will be dependent on the successful candidate’s relevant skills, experience, qualifications, store location, and internal equity. This role is eligible for a variable annual incentive plan. #J-18808-Ljbffr