Handler Announces NAPA Associate Category Manager – Undercar Search
ATLANTA, GA. – October 15, 2026
We are pleased to announce Handler’s launch of a search for NAPA to hire an Associate Category Manager-Undercar. This key role will be based at headquarters in Atlanta, GA.
This is an opportunity to help shape and grow a significant portion of NAPA’s Undercar business, supporting a $500M portfolio spanning Chassis, Ride Control, Exhaust, Clutch, Lift Supports, U-Joints, and related Undercar product categories. Partnering closely with the Senior Category Manager, the Associate will help drive day-to-day category performance across promotions, supplier partnerships, marketing, analytics, and new product initiatives, while gaining broad exposure across NAPA’s merchandising organization. This is a unique opportunity for an emerging professional to bring fresh perspective, take meaningful ownership, and grow alongside the category—with strong visibility and a natural path toward future Category Management leadership.
The ideal candidate is a driven, commercially minded professional who approaches the category with an ownership mentality and is eager to grow into broader leadership responsibility. They are highly organized, proactive, and comfortable navigating financial data and competing priorities, with the humility and curiosity to ask questions and learn quickly. Above all, they are a collaborative, low-ego partner who builds strong relationships and works effectively across teams.
Specific functions and responsibilities of the position include:
- 2–4 years of relevant professional experience in Category Management, Merchandising, Product Management, Inventory Planning/Replenishment, Supply Chain, Marketing, Distribution, or another transferable business function; direct Category Management experience is preferred but not required, with greater emphasis placed on the quality and transferability of experience
- Strong financial and analytical acumen, including retail math, category performance analysis, and reporting with proficiency in Excel and ability to analyze data and translate insights into actionable business recommendations
- Excellent presentation and communication skills, with experience effectively communicating financial and business insights to key stakeholders
- Experience working with suppliers/vendors and/or inventory and distribution operations is highly valued; automotive aftermarket experience is beneficial but not required
Education Requirement — Bachelor’s degree required
Next steps:
- To learn more about this exciting role, listen to our audio
- Qualified and interested, or to refer a colleague, contact our Search Consultant, Kathleen Leard
We look forward to hearing from you.
