Category Manager IT (m/w/d) Product Manager

Overview

The Category Manager IT is responsible for the strategic management, further development, and performance of IT product categories such as hardware, software, cloud services, or managed services. Through market analysis, manufacturer/partner management, and data-driven assortment management, the Category Manager significantly contributes to the growth and profitability of the IT portfolio.

Responsibilities

Strategic development of the IT portfolio

• Development and implementation of a category strategy for defined IT product groups (e.g., End User Devices, Server/Storage, Network Technology, Cybersecurity, Software & Cloud)
• Analysis of technology trends, product life cycles, and innovation cycles in the IT industry
• Identification of new technologies, manufacturers, or solutions for portfolio expansion
• Building partner programs and strategic manufacturer alliances

Operational IT category management

• Management of categories regarding revenue, margin, sales planning, and forecasts
• Evaluation and selection of products, services, and manufacturers for the IT portfolio
• Pricing and offer design considering market prices, tenders, and manufacturer programs
• Planning and execution of marketing initiatives (bundles, promotions, launches)
• Ensuring availability in cooperation with purchasing and distributors

Supplier & Manufacturer Management

• Selection, qualification, and development of IT manufacturers and distributors
• Management of partner status programs (especially Lenovo, Microsoft, Apple, and HP)
• Conducting annual and quarterly meetings including target agreements
• Negotiation of purchase prices, discounts, incentives, and marketing support

Analysis & Reporting

• Creation and monitoring of relevant KPIs (revenue, margin, sell-in/sell-out, inventory, rotation speed, partner revenue)
• Use of data sources such as BI tools, manufacturer tools, distribution data, and market studies
• Derivation of measures for performance optimization of the IT category
• Close coordination with sales, presales, marketing, purchasing, service delivery, and finance

Profile

Must-have

• Completed studies in business administration, business informatics, IT management, or comparable qualification
• Several years of experience in the IT environment: Category Management, Product Management, Purchasing, or Manufacturer/Distribution Management
• In-depth knowledge of IT hardware, software, cloud, and service models
• Experience working with manufacturers and distributors in the IT industry
• Analytical understanding of KPIs, price structures, program incentives, and market mechanisms

Nice-to-have

• Certifications or knowledge of current manufacturer programs (e.g., Microsoft, HP, Dell, Lenovo, Apple)
• Experience in the managed services or cloud business (CSP, SaaS, IaaS)
• Knowledge of modern licensing models as well as subscription and lifecycle models

We offer

• Permanent employment contract
• Comprehensive onboarding
• Mobile working possible
• 30 days of vacation
• Company pension scheme
• Capital-forming benefits (VWL)
• Bicycle & e-bike leasing
• Independent area of responsibility
• Further training opportunities
• Free drinks
• Team building events

Further information

Then we look forward to receiving your application via our online form. Don't forget: Your earliest possible start date. Let's get talking quickly! You can find our data protection declaration at the following link Apply now! Econocom Products & Solutions GmbH Human Resources Department Gutleutstr. 169-171 60327 Frankfurt am Main www.econocom.de