Associate Category Manager - Vitamins

Sprouts Farmers Market•Phoenix, AZ

About The Position

The Associate Category Manager plans and directs all aspects of product development policies, programs, objectives, and initiatives with oversight from the Senior Category Manager. This position will research new products, product enhancements, and product redesign that are consistent in meeting the expectations of Sprouts minimum standards for the department. The Associate Category Manager analyzes past buying trends, sales records, price, and quality of merchandise to determine value and velocity. This position selects, orders, and authorizes payment for merchandise according to contractual agreements.

Requirements

Previous buying/negotiating experience required
Requires long-term strategic and financial planning skills
Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook and the Internet
Ability to preserve confidentiality of information, communicate with all levels of management and work within strict time frames and resolute deadlines
Complete understanding of P/L statements, general ledgers, and margins

Nice To Haves

Preferred Bachelor Degree in Business or related field with a minimum of five (5) years of departmental experience, with experience as Merchandiser or Manager preferred
Some travel required

Responsibilities

Help outline and follow Sprouts standards for all products carried in the department and assure all vendor products meet those standards on quality and price.
Provide the stores with relevant data to make informed decisions about the department and how to maximize profitability
Create programs with training that maximize sales, margin and minimize spoilage
Establish and manage inventory processes that ensure accurate accounting
Establish retail and promotional pricing on a regional or global basis to meet budgetary goals
Develop and maintain budget, sales, gross margins, and profit goals for department
Review all weekly, monthly, and quarterly statements
Develop and communicate easy to use weekly merchandising plans and directives for merchandiser and store use
Oversee all department marketing plans and ads, including weekly flyer, ROPs, etc
Develop training that enhances and encourages product knowledge growth and development
Keep the department fresh and appealing to customers by regularly incorporating new product into the overall product mix
Respond to vendor/customer issues as needed on a timely basis
Oversee the department to ensure the focus is on customer service, Sprouts' vision, profit, and employee development
Maintain awareness of Sprouts marketing strategies and competitive activity
Develop and maintain strong vendor relationships
Support and act as a liaison between Sprouts stores and vendors to assure quality products and department standards are being delivered
Supply clear direction for new & existing stores on proper department layout, schematics, opening orders, programs & training
Coordinate and source vendor participation for new store openings and resets
Ensure that all federal, state, and company regulations and standards for product freshness, safety, refrigeration, and sanitation are met
Develop strategies that keep Sprouts on the cutting edge of the industry
Determine staffing requirements, and interview, hire and train new employees, or oversee those personnel processes

Benefits

Competitive pay
Sick time plan that you can use to support you or your immediate families health
Vacation accrual plan
Opportunities for career growth
15% discount for you and one other family member in your household on all purchases made at Sprouts
Flexible schedules
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
401(K) Retirement savings plan with a generous company match
Company paid life insurance
Contests and appreciation events throughout the year full of prizes, food and fun!
Bonus based on company and/or individual performance
Affordable benefit coverage, including medical, dental and vision
Health Savings Account with company match
Pre-tax Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent care
Company paid short-term disability coverage
Paid parental leave for both mothers and fathers
Paid holidays
DailyPay - if you’re hired as an eligible employee, you’ll be able to transfer the money you’ve already earned at no extra cost, and get it the next business day, for free.