Category Analyst

PLTFRM Companies LLC • South Barrington, IL

2d • Remote

About The Position

We’re looking for a Category Analyst to turn retail and consumer data into insights that help our teams and brand partners make smarter decisions and drive category growth. You’ll work with syndicated, retailer, and internal data to uncover trends and opportunities across assortment, pricing, promotions, distribution, and sales performance. You’ll help translate those findings into clear recommendations and compelling retailer presentations that support category and line reviews. This role partners closely with Data Analytics, Brand Management, and retailer-facing teams and is a great opportunity for someone early in their career who loves working with data, solving problems, and learning how brands win at retail.

Requirements

• 1–3 years of experience in data analytics, category management, retail analytics, CPG, food brokerage, or a related field
• Experience working with retail or syndicated data such as SPINS, Circana/IRI, NIQ, 84.51°, Numerator, Market 6, Stratum, or similar platforms
• Strong Excel skills, including formulas, pivot tables, and working with large datasets
• Experience with PowerPoint and the ability to turn data into clear, easy-to-understand presentations
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with curiosity about the story behind the numbers
• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
• Strong communication skills and comfort collaborating across different teams
• Ability to work independently, ask good questions, and take ownership of your work

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Power BI, Tableau, Power Query, or Power Pivot is a plus
• Interest in natural products, CPG, brands, and the retail landscape is a plus

Responsibilities

• Support the development of category reviews, line reviews, assortment recommendations, and retailer presentations by turning data into clear insights and opportunities.
• Collect, organize, and analyze data from sources including SPINS, Nielsen, Circana/IRI, retailer portals, and internal systems to identify trends across sales, distribution, pricing, promotions, and market share.
• Help translate data into actionable recommendations around assortment, new items, pricing, promotions, and category growth.
• Support sales forecasting and pre- and post-promotional analysis, using historical performance and retailer trends to identify opportunities and key learnings.
• Work closely with Data Analytics, Brand Management, and retailer-facing teams to understand account priorities, support category strategies, and prepare teams for retailer presentations.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Remote Work Environment
• 401K + Company match
• A high ownership, high performance, high collaboration culture
• The opportunity to work with leading consumer brands and shape the future of commerce

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed