Category Manager - Rural Merchandise

Norco is seeking an experienced Category Manager to join our AgriSolutions division on a maximum-term contract supporting a period of parental leave.

This is a key role responsible for driving product strategy, procurement outcomes, and supplier partnerships across a portfolio of rural merchandise categories. 

Reporting to the Merchandise Manager, you will lead category planning, pricing, and promotional strategy to deliver strong commercial performance across the retail network.

Category allocation will be aligned to your experience, allowing you to step in quickly and make an immediate impact.

The role can be based in Labrador (QLD) or in Lismore (NSW) and includes periodic interstate travel for store visits, supplier engagement and industry activities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead category strategy across product range, pricing, and promotions to optimise sales and margin 
• Manage allocated categories (e.g. animal health, crop protection, fencing, fertiliser or similar) depending on experience 
• Drive procurement outcomes, including seasonal purchasing programs and network-wide buying initiatives 
• Partner with Norco’s strategic buying group to deliver competitive commercial outcomes
• Manage supplier relationships, including negotiation of trading terms, joint business planning, and performance outcomes 
• Oversee supplier-funded promotions, rebates, and advertising spend 
• Identify growth opportunities through market insights, trend analysis, and product innovation
• Partner with marketing and operations teams to drive category performance and customer outcomes 
• Provide hands-on support and training to stores to strengthen execution and product knowledge
• Ensure alignment across in-store and digital channels 
• Maintain compliance with regulatory and product standards

About You:

You are a commercially astute Category Manager (or similar) with strong procurement and supplier management experience, capable of delivering results in a fast-paced environment.

• Experience in the agricultural, rural retail or related industry is essential
• Proven experience in category management, merchandising, buying or procurement
• Strong commercial acumen across pricing, margin, and supplier negotiations
• Demonstrated ability to drive procurement and marketing outcomes across a retail network
• Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing capability
• Analytical mindset, with the ability to interpret data and drive decision-making
• Hands-on, adaptable, and solutions-focused approach

Why join Norco?

We are proud of the way we look after our people. In addition to meaningful work that truly makes a difference, we offer competitive remuneration and benefits, including:

• Fitness Passport to support your physical wellbeing
• 4 "Selfie Days" per year; a paid day off just for you, to recharge, reset or take care of life stuff
• Flexibility to work one day from home each week
• Free onsite parking Labrador or Lismore
• Novated leasing options
• A values‑driven, inclusive culture where people genuinely care for one another
• The opportunity to work for a 100% Australian, farmer‑owned organisation with a strong purpose and proud history

If you’re looking for a role where you can take ownership of category performance and drive commercial outcomes as part of a dynamic team, we would love to hear from you.  Applications close on Friday 5th June, however we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date, so get your applications into to us ASAP!

How to Apply

If your values align with ours of Connection, Agility, Diversity and Authenticity and you’re ready to be part of a team dedicated to delivering great outcomes for our customers and communities, we’d love to hear from you.

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

As part of our pre-employment process, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a police check and pre-employment medical, including a drug and alcohol test.

At Norco, we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce to create better outcomes for all.