Category Manager

Richelieu Foods•Wheeling, IL

About The Position

At Richelieu Foods, we are dedicated to a culture of belonging for everyone. Driven by our values of ownership, respect, and growth, we put people, safety, and quality above all else -- delicious pizza, outstanding service, and solid customer relationships are what happens as a result! Richelieu Foods, Inc. is a leading national private label and contract packing food manufacturer focused on frozen pizza. We have two manufacturing facilities located in IL and WI. We provide products to many national retailers, wholesalers, distributors, club and mass stores, as well as industrial accounts including other food manufacturers. The Category Manager is responsible for developing and managing a strategy for category development, portfolio management and new segment growth in conjunction with the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Commercial Officer. This will include identifying new areas for growth, products for elimination, developing and leading a product lifecycle approach (including adding, changing, and removing items from the portfolio), reducing and minimizing product complexity and ensuring tight connections between our capabilities and customer needs. The individual will be tasked with generating improved private label value, as well as developing category growth strategies and driving overall efficiency in sales and business performance.

Requirements

Attention to detail and commitment to achieving high-quality results
Understanding of North American retail customers
Strong analytical skills with experience in data analysis and market research
Proficiency in using category management software and tools
Excellent negotiation and communication skills
Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines
Knowledge of consumer behavior and market trends
Proven track record of driving sales and profitability through effective category management
Experience working with cross-functional teams
Strong problem-solving skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to work well under pressure and manage time effectively
Bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing, or related field
A minimum of 5 years of experience in a category management role
Strong record of accomplishment in developing private-label food or consumer packaged goods
Ability and willingness to travel domestically 20% of the time.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement category strategies to achieve business goals
Conduct market research to identify consumer trends and needs
Analyze sales data to make informed decisions about product assortment
Create compelling presentations for customers to create actionable business plans
Collaborate with commercial, finance, and R&D to understand product attributes and pricing strategy
Monitor competitor activities and adjust strategies accordingly
Prepare and present reports on category performance to senior management
Identify opportunities for product development or enhancement