Category Manager - EssilorLuxottica

We are EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of ophthalmic lenses, frames and sunglasses. We bring together the expertise of two industry pioneers, one in advanced lens technologies and the other in the craftsmanship of iconic eyewear, creating a vertically integrated business that is uniquely positioned to address the world’s evolving vision needs. We craft exclusive eyewear brands Ray-Ban, Oakley, Oliver Peoples, Persol, Costa and more, alongside esteemed licensed brands such as Tiffany & Co, Burberry, and CHANEL whilst our cutting-edge lenses Varilux and Transitions lead the industry in innovation. In Australia and New Zealand, we operate the iconic retail and eye care brands: Sunglass Hut, Oakley, OPSM, Ray-Ban and Laubman & Pank. Every day, EssilorLuxottica’s 190,000 employees in 150 countries work towards a common mission to help people see more and be more.

We’re looking for a strategic Category Manager to drive the Sun and Apparel category across our ANZ Sun retail banners (Sunglass Hut / Ray-Ban).

In this role, you’ll support category strategy, execution and performance, using data and insights to deliver a compelling, customer-focused offer across all channels. Partnering closely with cross-functional teams and senior stakeholders, you’ll play a key role in shaping retail outcomes and influencing business growth.

Success in this role is measured by the achievement of key financial metrics, customer Net Promoter Scores (NPS), and the ability to collaborate effectively while contributing positively to the team and broader organisation.

Please Note: This is a 12-month fixed-term contract.

Your Responsibilities

• Strategic Planning and Category Management: Develop and execute a commercially aligned retail assortment plans, using data and insights to optimise performance and meet customer needs.
• Data & Analytics: Monitor category performance using analytics tools, generate reports and dashboards, identify trends, forecast growth, and leverage insights to optimize category strategies and drive results.
• Sales and Marketing Collaboration: Partner with Sales, Operations, and Marketing to develop selling tools, training, and targeted campaigns. Analyse performance to optimise category growth and ensure consistent, compelling brand communication across all retail channels.
• Product Development, Innovation and Feedback: Collaborate with global teams to identify portfolio gaps and innovation opportunities. Provide input on product features and designs, drive go-to-market strategies for new launches, and maintain a product range that aligns with business objectives and target customers.
• Operational Excellence: Monitor inventory and collaborate with supply chain teams to maintain optimal stock. Analyse sales, margins, and market share to guide decisions, manage category budgets, and provide expert insights on products and customers.

About You

• 3–5 years' experience in a commercial and/or retail environment, with demonstrated expertise in Category Management, Merchandise Planning, or Inventory Management.
• Strong and demonstrated analytical and reporting ability
• Confident communication with excellent presentation skills
• Excellent project management skills with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure, plan personal workload effectively and delegate when appropriate.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly in Excel and PowerPoint.
• SAP and BI experience are ideal but not mandatory as is experience in the optical industry.

Working at EssilorLuxottica

A career with EssilorLuxottica will offer you rewarding experiences and the opportunity to develop your skills every day. Working at our head-office located in North Sydney, you will enjoy:

• Generous yearly $1,500 product allowance and Family & Friends discounts of up to 50% off to splurge across all our brands – OPSM, Sunglass Hut, Oakley, Ray-Ban, Laubman & Pank and EyeQ
• Up to 50% off Oakley eyewear and apparel throughout the year.
• Wellness amenities including reformer a Pilates studio, Yoga classes, Personal training and Bike storage.
• Abundance of local cafes, a major shopping centre and close to public transport facilities
• Volunteering with our charity partner OneSight, including volunteer leave and iChampion ambassador opportunities.
• Wide range of career opportunities across the EssilorLuxottica network
• Complimentary full-time concierge services offering an exclusive hotel-style experience!
• Options for a hybrid working environment

Next Steps

To be considered for this opportunity, please click apply and send your resume today.

*Please note, due to the high volume of applications only successful candidates will be contacted. We thank you in advance for your interest in EssilorLuxottica*

To be considered for this opportunity, please click apply and send your cover letter and resume today.

As an inclusive, team-first company, our people are at the core of everything we do.

We care deeply about creating a workplace where our team members feel valued, respected and empowered. We are committed to providing equal opportunity regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or life stage.

We value flexibility and encourage our team members to work in ways that meet their work/life commitments and support their wellbeing.

We work hard to create a safe and inclusive environment for all, and most importantly, we're all about creating better experiences - for our customers and for each other.