Category Manager - Blackhawk

The Category Merchandising Manager for Blackhawk and Eagle Industries plays a critical role in driving the success of these tactical and military-grade gear brands. This position demands a strategic and hands-on approach to product development, from concept through market launch, with a specific focus on meeting the rigorous demands of first responders, military, law enforcement, and tactical professionals. This role involves developing annual line plans that achieve revenue, gross margin, and market share growth while reflecting a deep understanding of the specialized needs and preferences of these demanding customer segments.

The core responsibility is to establish and execute a clear vision and strategy for Blackhawk and Eagle Industries product lines, grounded in thorough analysis of market trends, competitive offerings, and the specific operational requirements of professional users. This role requires a strong understanding of return on investment, supported by data-driven insights and a detailed roadmap for product development and launch across all relevant distribution channels.

Success in this role hinges on a deep understanding of the Blackhawk and Eagle Industries brands, their heritage, and the unique performance advantages of their product portfolios. The Category Merchandising Manager will translate these strengths into compelling product narratives that resonate with the target audience. Working closely with internal product teams, this role is responsible for delivering innovative, mission-critical solutions that meet and exceed the expectations of professional users.

This position reports to the General Manger, Revelyst Project Freedom and is based out of our Chesapeake, Virginia location.

Key Responsibilities:

• Market Analysis & Product Positioning:
• Analyze target markets/segments within the military, law enforcement, and tactical communities, defining the potential for new, high-performance products.
• Position new products effectively, collaborating with sales, marketing, and subject matter experts to gain deep insights into each market segment and the competitive landscape.
• Deliver detailed new product briefs that align with the specific requirements of Blackhawk and Eagle Industries customers.
• Product Development & Execution:
• Execute the I2C (idea-to-consumer) pathway, ensuring timely progression through key milestones and process gates, and driving follow-up actions.
• Identify and evaluate opportunities for innovation in product design, materials, and functionality, focusing on enhancing performance and durability.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (design, development, marketing, sales) to align on product development goals and timelines.
• Become a leading expert on Blackhawk and Eagle Industries' competitors and the broader tactical gear market, using insights to inform strategic decisions.
• Maintain all relevant line plans completely and accurately. Support the future implementation of new product line and product information management tools, including PLM and PIM.
• Sales & Margin Management:
• Drive seasonal and annual sales and margin objectives, participating in long-range planning and delivering seasonal plans with clear paths to achievement.
• Monitor progress towards objectives and implement necessary tactics and problem-solving.
• Lead and manage pricing, price promotions, and product margin management.
• Collaboration & Communication:
• Develop strong working relationships with colleagues across teams, fostering collaboration and empowerment.
• Work with marketing to deliver product packaging, technical documentation, and user manuals that meet the standards of professional users.
• Facilitate presentations and discussions with end-users and retailers to gather feedback for product development.
• Deliver effective sell-in presentations to customers and during sales events.
• Intellectual Property & Trade Marketing:
• Develop and maintain effective intellectual property strategies.
• Execute trade marketing promotional plans aligned with sales and marketing objectives, managing the trade marketing budget.
• Improve brand presence and campaign execution across trade through in-store planning, execution, and tracking.
• Lead and implement channel-specific marketing strategies for assigned retailers.
• Assist in the creation of an annual calendar for all marketing and promotional activities to drive brand building initiatives including new product launches, store openings and special events or holiday promotions.
• Understand and comply with relevant policy and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications:

• College degree preferred.
• 5 years of sales, product, or marketing experience in wholesale, retail, or direct businesses, preferably within the tactical, military, or law enforcement industries.
• Proven track record of Product Line Management for consumer brands, products, or categories, with experience in outdoor or tactical gear being a significant plus.
• Experience across different channels, ideally including those serving military, law enforcement, or tactical professionals.
• Strong knowledge of the product development process, merchandising, and assortment planning.
• Excellent verbal communication and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail and ability to manage schedules.
• Ability to manage ambiguity and make decisions with incomplete data.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to lead collaborative teams.
• Effective communication skills (verbal, written, visual).
• Adaptability, resilience, and a sense of urgency.
• Demonstrated passion for the tactical gear industry and commitment to the brands.
• Personal and professional values aligned with company values and culture, with high integrity.
• Ability to handle pressure and meet deadlines.
• Experience in a fast-paced, growing company or small company/location with both strategic and hands-on responsibilities.