Category Specialist (US - Remote)

Tradin Organic Agriculture B.V.•Aptos, CA

2d•Remote

About The Position

The Category Specialist is responsible for procuring and selling designated products to internal and external customers. The role aims to generate income by executing purchase and sales strategies while balancing risk and return. It works closely with quality, logistics, and operations, monitors market fluctuations, and identifies new business opportunities. The specialist manages assigned product categories and customer/vendor portfolios, maintains inventory and product performance, and builds relationships with suppliers, customers, and internal stakeholders. The position also monitors market trends and pricing, ensures supplier and product compliance with quality standards and customer expectations, resolves product issues and complaints, prepares reports and business insights, and supports special projects and cross-functional initiatives. This is a remote position within the United States. The role is strategic, works independently, and may support more junior colleagues when needed.

Requirements

Background in Business Management, Marketing, International Trade, or Agriculture.
Preferred: 5+ years of experience in a commercial environment.
Ability to independently manage a portfolio of customers and vendors with high business priority.
Deep or broad knowledge of business processes related to the role, with the ability to anticipate developments and consequences.
Ability to work strategically and independently, support junior colleagues when needed, and proactively identify process bottlenecks and solutions.
Working knowledge of MS Office.
Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to multitask.
Strong organizational skills.
Ability to solve challenging problems.
Time management skills.
High level of initiative.
Ability to thrive in ambiguous situations.
Customer service mindset.

Nice To Haves

Business-to-business commercial experience, preferably in key account management.
Successful experience selling through a portfolio to an existing customer base.
Successful experience finding prospects, converting prospects into leads, and leads into business opportunities.
Demonstrated experience building rapport with customers and developing durable relationships.

Responsibilities

Procure and manage assigned product categories, ensuring products meet specifications, contractual requirements, and cost objectives.
Maintain optimal inventory levels and monitor product group performance, recommending corrective actions as needed.
Build strong partnerships with suppliers, customers, and internal stakeholders to support business goals and operational excellence.
Monitor market trends, pricing movements, and industry developments to identify opportunities and mitigate risks.
Ensure suppliers and products meet company quality standards, vendor approval requirements, and customer expectations.
Resolve product-related issues and customer complaints by coordinating solutions with customers, vendors, and internal teams.
Prepare reports, provide business insights, and support special projects and cross-functional initiatives.
Execute purchase and sales strategies while considering risk and return.
Identify and monitor market fluctuations and create new business opportunities.