Manager-Category Management (Kids)

About the role

SPEED & SPIRIT is what we look for in our candidates, defined by some simple values that inspire us to BE DRIVEN in our performance, BE VIBRANT in our sporting legacy, BE TOGETHER in our team spirit, and to let our individual talent and experience shine. Applying for a job at PUMA is easy. Simply click APPLY ONLINE and follow the steps to upload your application. YOUR MISSION Reporting to: Lead Buying Accessories, Equipment & Kids Position Summary: To drive growth for Puma India in the Kids category Range Planning and Assortment Gather Customer requirements and feedback to inculcate into the category On time delivery of goods to required stores and platforms Key Responsibilities- Build seasonal assortment across price points, categories, channels and age groups (PS/Youth/ Infant) and identify gaps. Translate market trends, consumer behavior, and competition into actionable product concepts (design, color, fabric, fit) Partner closely with design and sourcing teams to develop product with strong aesthetics, functionality, and cost alignment Manage OTB, drive order placement, optimize buys and depth vs. width. Partner with design/sourcing on trends, fabrics, and fits to drive sell-through. Track sales, margin, ST, WoC; drive repeats, markdowns, and exits. Leverage consumer and competition insights to refine range. Work cross-functionally to ensure smooth GTM execution. Key Performance Indicators: Trend forecasting and range planning Product analytics and business planning Vendor and sourcing coordination Presentation and product storytelling skills Advanced Excel / planning tools understanding Global range planning understanding Product and trend sensitivity Global stakeholder management OTB and buy planning knowledge Product analytics understanding GTM execution management Product storytelling and presentation skills Cross-functional collaboration Strong Excel and analytical skills Agile and solution-oriented mindset YOUR TALENT Eligibility Criteria And Functional Competencies Required: We are looking for s omeone who has worked in product role/ buying role who knows integrities of buying product and merchandising possibly on kids. I also had shared ref brands to check. 5-8 yrs in merchandising/buying (Kids preferred) with strong product sense, analytical mindset, and execution ownership. PUMA provides equal opportunities for all job applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, or disability. Equality for all is one of the core principles at PUMA and we do not tolerate any form of harassment or discrimination. At PUMA, every application is reviewed by real people who are committed to fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity - no matter your background, identity, or experience.To ensure our process stays true to these values, no automated systems or AI tools are used to make hiring decisions. Every decision is made by real people -with real judgment and accountability. We may use functions supported by Artificial Intelligence (AI) to carry out isolated organizational steps, such as scheduling interviews. These functions have no influence on decisions in the application process. We believe in creating spaces where everyone is welcome, celebrated, and empowered to contribute authentically. Because at PUMA, whoever wants to play, can play. PUMA is a global sports brand creating footwear, apparel, and accessories that inspire athletes and everyday movers. The PUMA Group owns PUMA, Cobra Golf, and stichd, operates in 120+ countries, and has around 22,000 employees worldwide.