Director, Bakery

Heritage Grocers Group•Itasca, IL

3d•$125,000 - $170,000

About The Position

At Heritage Grocers Group, we are defined by our shared values of absolute integrity, respect, and collaboration. We are a team of smart, highly driven people united in purpose to serve one another. Bring your energy and unique perspective, and you'll have the opportunity to grow with us professionally, personally, and financially. You'll be part of a team that genuinely cares about helping you succeed, and you'll work alongside talented colleagues while making a difference in our communities.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in business or related field or equivalent work experience, preferred.
Five (5) to seven (7) years of experience in product negotiation and procurement, preferably in prepared foods or baked goods and products.
Knowledge of supplier and logistic systems, as well as knowledge of the federal grade/product standards and regulations.
Understanding of store operations and merchandising methodologies and practices.
Ability to integrate with local management, be part of a team, and drive business results.
Ability to be persuasive and relentless in reinforcing the best interests of the Company.
Proven leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual (English and Spanish) preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead the overall strategy and performance of the bakery category management function.
Negotiate vendor pricing, promotions, assortment, and terms to support sales growth and margin objectives.
Own financial performance for bakery categories, including sales, gross margin, and profitability.
Analyze category, item, and vendor performance and make data-driven decisions to improve business results.
Develop and execute category business plans, including annual reviews, innovation strategies, and promotional plans.
Partner with procurement and supply chain teams to support inventory management and distribution processes.
Build and maintain strong vendor relationships to secure favorable terms, funding, and strategic support.
Provide leadership and direction to category managers, purchasing assistants, and cross-functional partners.
Approve schematic plans, assortment decisions, and merchandising strategies for managed categories.
Support capital planning and business case development for fixtures, shelving, and store layout initiatives.
Create category business plans (CBP) for managed categories.
Provide daily performance and administrative leadership of the department team.
Perform other duties as assigned.