Category Manager (Apparel)

Opportunity for Expanded Category Leadership

Actual compensation will be determined based on qualifications, experience and the scope of responsibilities assigned. Candidates with extensive related experience who are capable of managing additional category responsibilities may be considered for compensation above the posted range. A single candidate may be selected to oversee both categories if qualifications and business needs support an expanded role.

Position Summary

The Category Manager must possess extensive knowledge of assigned product categories and market dynamics. This position is responsible for overseeing inventory management, evaluating industry trends, cultivating strong relationships with vendors and members, negotiating programs and purchasing opportunities and implementing strategies that drive growth and enhance value for NBS members. Serving as a primary point of contact between suppliers, members and internal stakeholders, this position provides market intelligence, supports NBS Markets and industry events and exemplifies professionalism  and ethical business practices.

Reports To: Director of Merchandising

Classification: Full-Time | Exempt

Location: 4350 Fossil Creek Blvd. Fort Worth, Texas 76137

Work Environment: Full Onsite, In-Person Office

Business Hours: In-Person | Monday – Friday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance Coverage
• Ancillary Benefits: Life, Disability, Cancer, Accident and Intensive Care Insurance
• Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)
• 401(k) with Corporate Contribution
• Time Off Programs
• 24/7 On-Site Fitness Facility

Key Responsibilities

• Manage inventory and purchasing activities for assigned product categories to support business objectives and member needs.
• Analyze market trends, consumer demand, competitive activity and product innovations to identify opportunities and forecast future purchasing needs.
• Demonstrate a service-oriented approach by prioritizing the needs of NBS members, vendor partners, and internal stakeholders, building trusted relationships and delivering solutions that support their success.
• Develop a thorough understanding of the independent dealer marketplace and implement strategies to enhance member value and engagement.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, vendors, members and industry partners to support category growth and business development.
• Negotiate vendor agreements, special purchase opportunities, promotional programs and strategic initiatives to maximize value for NBS and its membership.
• Assess financial performance, inventory investments and purchasing risks to support sound business decisions and profitability.
• Identify, recruit and cultivate relationships with prospective vendors to expand product offerings and strengthen supplier participation.
• Represent NBS at Markets, trade shows, conferences and industry events while gathering and sharing market intelligence, emerging trends, and business opportunities.
• Collaborate regularly with the Director of Merchandising and fellow Category Managers to execute strategic initiatives, evaluate performance and achieve departmental goals while demonstrating professionalism, integrity and ethical leadership.
• Travel up to 20% annually and perform other duties or special projects as assigned.

Qualifications & Skills

Required Qualifications

• Strong negotiation skills with the ability to build mutually beneficial partnerships and business relationships.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to provide exceptional customer service and foster positive relationships.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
• Strong organizational, analytical and problem-solving skills with a high attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities while meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Self-motivated with a strong work ethic, initiative and ability to work independently.
• Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across all levels of the organization.
• Willingness and ability to travel periodically for vendor meetings, industry conferences, trade shows and NBS Markets.

Preferred Qualifications

• Comprehensive knowledge of the hunting, fishing, shooting sports, firearms, archery, airsoft, marine, and outdoor recreation industries, including familiarity with key products, brands, manufacturers, market trends, and vendor relationships.
• Passion for outdoor activities and a strong understanding of sporting goods and equipment.
• Previous experience in category management, merchandising, purchasing, vendor management, retail sales, outside sales or a related field.
• Experience analyzing market trends, product performance, and inventory management to support business decisions.

Core Competencies

• Category Management & Merchandising
• Vendor Relations & Strategic Negotiation
• Market Analysis, Trend Forecasting & Business Insight
• Inventory Management & Financial Acumen
• Member Service & Relationship Management
• Business Development & Partnership Growth
• Communication, Collaboration & Influencing Skills
• Professionalism, Integrity & Ethical Leadership

Impact of the Role

The Category Manager plays a critical role in driving revenue growth and profitability by strategically managing product categories, optimizing inventory, and securing high-value vendor partnerships. Through deep market insight, trend analysis and proactive sourcing, this role directly enhances the product assortment and overall value delivered to independent dealer members. By serving as a key liaison between vendors, members and internal teams, the Category Manager strengthens supplier relationships, elevates the NBS market experience and supports long-term organizational growth.

Nation’s Best Sports (NBS) is one of North America’s leading outdoor sporting goods buying groups, dedicated to supporting independent retailers since 1956. At NBS, we believe in building relationships that feel like family, bringing together our team members, independent retail partners, and vendor partners to create a strong and collaborative network across the sporting goods industry.

Today, NBS supports more than 450 independent retailers and partners with over 1,200 manufacturers worldwide. Through our exclusive Buying Markets, held multiple times each year, we provide unique opportunities for Members and Vendor Partners to connect, build relationships, and place future orders in a dynamic trade show-style environment.

Our success is driven by a commitment to exceptional service, innovation, and a shared passion for the outdoor industry. We are proud to foster a collaborative, customer-focused culture where employees can make a meaningful impact while helping independent retailers grow and succeed in a competitive marketplace.