Category Specialist

Position Purpose:

The Category Specialist at SRS Building Products drives sales growth and market expansion within an assigned product category at the branch level. This role serves as a product knowledge expert and key relationship manager collaborating with internal teams and external partners to deliver strong service support customers and grow SRSs specialty product offerings.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute sales strategies to achieve category and branch growth goals.

• Build and maintain relationships with contractors builders architects distributors and other key stakeholders.

• Serve as a subject matter expert on assigned product lines and provide technical/product guidance to customers and internal teams.

• Partner cross-functionally with operations supply chain customer service and marketing to support customer needs and drive sales.

• Prepare quotes manage customer relationships and support the full sales cycle.

• Monitor performance analyze market trends and provide reporting and insights to leadership.

Direct Manager Direct Reports:

This role reports to the Branch Manager with a dotted line to a Category Manager or Category Director and has no direct reports. The position works closely with internal partners and external customers to support category growth.

Travel Requirements:

Travel within the assigned territory is required to support customer relationships sales growth and market development.

Physical Requirements:

This role includes both office and field activities. Requirements include operating standard office equipment communicating by phone and email and sitting or standing for extended periods. Occasional lifting of materials up to 20 pounds and travel within the territory may be required. Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed.

Working Conditions:

The Category Specialist operates in a fast-paced deadline-driven environment that includes branch field and remote work. The role requires strong organization adaptability and the ability to manage multiple priorities while supporting customers and internal teams.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Business Marketing or related field (or equivalent experience).

• 35 years of sales experience in building materials with preference for specialty products.

• Strong understanding of building supply markets and customer base.

• Proven ability to drive sales growth and manage customer relationships.

• Strong communication analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Proficiency with CRM and sales reporting tools.

• Ability to travel within assigned territory.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in Business Marketing or related field.

• Established network within building materials or specialty products.

• Experience developing sales strategies supporting product training and managing long-term customer relationships.

• Industry certifications (CSP LEED AP CCM) preferred.

Minimum Education:

Bachelors degree in Business Marketing or related field required.

Preferred Education:

Masters degree in Business Administration or related field preferred.

Minimum Years of Work Experience:

35 years of sales experience in building materials or specialty products.

Certifications:

Preferred certifications include CSP LEED AP or CCM.

Competencies:

• Strategic sales execution and customer relationship management

• Product knowledge and market awareness

• Cross-functional collaboration

• Analytical and reporting skills

• Communication and negotiation

Job Location: