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Senior Category Merchant
full-timeLincolnshire

Summary

Location

Lincolnshire

Type

full-time

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About this role

Quill is a valuable part of the Staples family of brands. Since 1956, Quill has held its position as a leader in office supplies.

Acquired by Staples in 1998, Quill delivers the essential services, solutions, and award-winning customer support to help our customers – and our people – thrive. When you partner with Quill, as a customer or as an associate, every workday is more rewarding. 

From paper, ink & toner, to technology and custom print, we deliver the right products at the right value, plus an unmatched assortment of over 900 instant rewards available with every order.

What you will be doing:

As a Senior Category Merchant, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategy and execution for high-volume and complex product lines at Quill. You’ll lead a talented team, leveraging customer insights and data analytics to deliver the best value and selection for our customers through seamless online and offline experiences. Your responsibilities will span assortment planning, vendor selection, pricing strategy, negotiation, financial analysis, inventory management, promotional planning, and merchandise presentation. You’ll partner cross-functionally with teams including Ecommerce, Pricing & Analytics, Marketing, Finance, and Inventory Management to achieve ambitious sales and margin goals.

This role is both strategic and tactical, giving you ownership of the product category P&L and the chance to innovate and drive results. You’ll lead negotiations with vendors, develop and execute business plans, and ensure a best-in-class customer journey. If you are passionate about merchandising, thrive in a collaborative environment, and want to influence the future of B2B commerce, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

What You Bring to the Table:

  • Proven experience leading and managing high-performing teams.
  • Track record of driving sales, margin results, and managing large P&L accounts.
  • Experience in multiple product categories, preferably with B2B customers or sales teams.
  • Expertise in merchandising strategy, vendor negotiations, and online retail optimization.
  • Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and develop actionable plans.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence across all levels.
  • Creative, innovative approach to problem-solving and process improvement.
  • Proficiency in MS Office applications, especially Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook.
  • Excellent written, verbal communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Attention to detail and a strategic, analytical approach.
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence at multiple level.

What’s needed: Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent work experience.
  • 8+ years of relevant merchandising experience.
  • Ability to analyze data, understand key indicators, and make informed decisions.
  • Experience with online merchandising and vendor negotiations.
  • Demonstrated ability to drive sales and margin results.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with large P&L management and multiple product categories.
  • Background working with B2B customers or sales teams.
  • Strong strategic and analytical thinking skills with the ability to develop recommendations and action plans based on data.

We Offer:

  • Inclusive culture with associate-led Business Resource Groups
  • Flexible PTO (22 days) and Holiday Schedule (7 observed paid holidays)
  • Online and Retail Discounts, Company Match 401(k), Physical and Mental Health Wellness programs, and more!

The salary range represents the expected compensation for this role at the time of posting. The specific base pay may be influenced by a variety of factors to include the candidate's experience, skill set, education, geography, business considerations, and internal equity.  In addition to base pay, this role may be eligible for bonuses, or other forms of variable compensation. 

 

 


Staples is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.

Other facts

Tech stack
Team Leadership,Sales Management,P&L Management,Vendor Negotiations,Data Analysis,Communication Skills,Problem Solving,Merchandising Strategy,Online Retail Optimization,Attention to Detail,Strategic Thinking,Analytical Skills,Interpersonal Skills,Creative Thinking,Microsoft Office,Customer Insights

About Staples Retail

For nearly 40 years, Staples has been a trusted leader in delivering end-to-end workplace solutions for consumers and businesses of all sizes across a broad range of industries. The company provides a comprehensive portfolio of products, strategic solutions, and services including print and marketing, shipping, technology, and travel. Its specialized assortment includes high-quality office supplies, janitorial products, technology, furniture, and breakroom essentials, all supported by best-in-class supply chain capabilities and a dedicated team of experts committed to making the workday easier. Headquartered near Boston, Massachusetts, Staples operates throughout North America via direct B2B sales, e-commerce, and more than 900 retail stores. To learn more, visit your local U.S. Staples store, download the Staples app, explore Staples.com or StaplesBusiness.com, or follow @Staples on social media.

Team size: 10,001+ employees
LinkedIn: Visit
Industry: Retail Office Equipment
Founding Year: 1986

What you'll do

  • As a Senior Category Merchant, you will shape the strategy and execution for high-volume product lines at Quill. Your role includes assortment planning, vendor selection, pricing strategy, and cross-functional collaboration to achieve sales and margin goals.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Senior Category Merchant do at Staples Retail?

As a Senior Category Merchant at Staples Retail, you will: as a Senior Category Merchant, you will shape the strategy and execution for high-volume product lines at Quill. Your role includes assortment planning, vendor selection, pricing strategy, and cross-functional collaboration to achieve sales and margin goals..

Why join Staples Retail as a Senior Category Merchant?

Staples Retail is a leading Retail Office Equipment company.

Is the Senior Category Merchant position at Staples Retail remote?

The Senior Category Merchant position at Staples Retail is based in Lincolnshire, Illinois, United States. Contact the company through Clera for specific work arrangement details.

How do I apply for the Senior Category Merchant position at Staples Retail?

You can apply for the Senior Category Merchant position at Staples Retail directly through Clera. Click the "Apply Now" button above to start your application. Clera's AI-powered platform will help match your profile with this opportunity and guide you through the application process. You can also learn more about Staples Retail on their website.