Category Manager

Certco•Fitchburg, WI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Category Manager – Rare Opportunity at Certco, Inc. Location: Madison, WI (Verona Road Location) An opportunity like this does not come around often at Certco. We are excited to open recruitment for a Category Manager position—an impactful role that plays a key part in shaping product strategy, driving sales performance, and supporting the independent grocers we serve across the Midwest. At Certco, we are more than a wholesale distributor—we are a trusted partner to independent grocery retailers and the communities they serve. This role offers the chance to make meaningful business decisions, build strong vendor partnerships, and directly influence category growth and profitability. If you are analytical, strategic, and passionate about driving results, this is a rare opportunity to step into a role where your work truly makes an impact. Why This Role is Special Rare opening —these opportunities do not come available often Strategic role with direct influence on category performance Opportunity to build strong vendor relationships and drive business results Work with a collaborative team across Procurement, Marketing, and Merchandising Be part of a company that supports independent grocers and local communities

Requirements

3–5 years of experience in category management, procurement, negotiation, or a related field
Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management or a related field preferred
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data analysis tools
Ability to analyze complex data and translate insights into actionable strategies
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
Ability to analyze and develop accurate conclusions to support category decisions based on key data
An understanding of the market and consumer insights and trends
Knowledge of category management, and sales principles
Understanding of data analysis and forecasting methods
Strong people management and persuasion skills to manage and influence at all levels of the company
An analytical mind with strategic ability
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Consumer focused by placing the consumer at the center of the business development decision
Take ownership and holds themselves accountable for decisions results and overall performance of their category
Proficiency in MS Excel and forecasting/planning systems
Must have superior analytical skills, be detail oriented and have the ability to navigate in a fast-paced work environment.
Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills.
3-5 years of industry experience in category management, procurement, negotiation and/or related experience in a field with similar essential job duties.
Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management or related field preferred

Responsibilities

Develop category strategies to drive sales growth and meet financial goals
Analyze consumer and market data to identify trends and opportunities
Manage SKU performance and optimize product assortments
Partner with vendors to improve pricing, funding, and service quality
Lead category optimization projects and merchandising initiatives
Collaborate with Buyers and Retail Counselors to expand product offerings
Launch new products and ensure successful execution
Develop seasonal and promotional programs to drive incremental sales
Visit stores to gain insights and improve category performance
Build strong relationships across departments and vendor partners
Manage SKU performance to drive topline sales, revenue and meet financial budgets.
Analyze data and insights to determine industry and consumer trends regarding the product and category
Develop strategic data modeling tools and database, develop, and recommend product, assortments, placements, layouts, pricing, and promotional profitability
Manage vendor funding to maximize sales and profitability
Build and drive relationships with key vendors to improve pricing and quality of service
Lead category management projects to optimize assortments and related merchandising
Collaborate with Buyers and Retail Counselors to expand product categories
Ensure new items are accurately launched on a timely basis with appropriate execution
Educate customers and sales team on consumer, business insights and merchandising techniques
Adjust sales plan based on shopper and customer trends
Create seasonal programs to capitalize on incremental sales and lime time availability
Develop strong working relationships with Purchasing, Marketing and Merchandising items
Visit stores to gain further insight on the performance of sales programs
Demonstrates consistent punctuality and adheres to all requirements of the company’s Attendance Policy.