Job Description
Role Overview
The Category Manager - Pharma will work in close coordination with the Category Head, operations, marketing, technology and supply chain teams to drive execution of in-store initiatives, manage and deliver on Joint Business Plans (JBPs) with pharmaceutical brands, and drive strategy and growth initiatives to improve category performance across a network of ~7000 stores.
Key Responsibilities
1. Driving category performance
- Performance tracking and turnaround: Monitor regional, store, and category performance metrics to highlight variations and develop and implement action plans in collaboration with functional and regional teams
- KPI Monitoring: Track key category metrics including turnover, margins, and discounting patterns
- Management Reporting: Prepare regular performance reports and presentations for the leadership team
2. In-Store Initiative Execution
- Performance Improvement: Identify low-performing stores and implement targeted intervention strategies
- Store Initiatives Implementation: Drive execution of category-specific initiatives across the store network in collaboration with operations teams
- Store Staff Enablement: Support training programs for store staff on specialty therapy areas and category focus
3. Joint Business Plan (JBP) Management
- Partnership Execution: Drive implementation of JBPs with pharmaceutical companies while managing activation, adherence programs, co-marketing initiatives, and exclusive launches with pharma partners
- Stakeholder Coordination: Interface with internal teams (procurement, operations, marketing) and external partners
- Performance Tracking: Monitor JBP outcomes and ensure alignment with growth objectives
4. Supply Chain Coordination
- Fill Rate Monitoring: Track fill rates at brand, category, store, and regional levels; escalate supply issues and coordinate with supply chain team for corrective actions
- Availability Management: Monitor availability of focus SKUs and coordinate with supply chain teams for optimal stock levels
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Initiative Execution: Successful implementation of store toolkits and category initiatives across regions
- JBP Execution: Effective coordination and implementation of Joint Business Plans with pharma partners
- Performance Monitoring: Timely identification and escalation of underperforming stores/regions
Required Skills & Qualifications
Technical Skills
- Data Monitoring: Proficiency in Excel, data dashboarding (Power BI, Tableau) and SQL; ability to track performance metrics and identify trends
- Presentation: Strong PowerPoint skills for creating business presentations and reports
- Category Understanding: Basic knowledge of retail category KPIs - turnover, margins, discounting, fill rates etc.
- Process Management: Understanding of retail operations and supply chain basics
Soft Skills
- Stakeholder Management: Excellent communication and relationship management skills
- Program Management: Ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously with attention to detail
- Problem Solving: Analytical mindset with ability to identify issues and develop solutions
- Collaboration: Strong cross-functional working capability with internal and external teams
Educational Background
- Graduate degree (preferably in Business, Commerce, Engineering, or related field)
- 1-4 years of relevant experience in category management, supply chain, retail operations, or business operations
- Experience across industries is welcome
- MBA is a plus but not mandatory
- Prior experience in e-commerce startups and D2C brands is a plus
What We Offer
- Opportunity to work with India's leading pharmacy chain
- Chance to create an impact at scale
- Direct exposure to category management and retail operations
- Career growth in a rapidly expanding healthcare ecosystem
- Collaborative work environment with senior leadership
Ideal Candidate Profile
We are looking for a proactive, execution-oriented professional who thrives in a fast-paced retail environment. The ideal candidate should have strong problem-solving capabilities, the ability to develop actionable turnaround strategies, and excel at cross-functional collaboration.
Job Classification
Industry: Retail
Functional Area / Department: Merchandising, Retail & eCommerce
Role Category: Category Management & Operations
Role: Category Manager
Employement Type: Full time
Contact Details:
Company: Apollo Pharmacy
Location(s): Hyderabad
Keyskills:
Category Management
Business Operations
Retail Operations
Supply Chain