Sr Category Manager (Meat) - Hybrid

U.n.f.i • Stillwater, MN

298d

About The Position

The Senior Category Manager (Sr. CM) is a strategic leader responsible for driving growth, profitability, and innovation within assigned categories. This role is pivotal in the development and execution of comprehensive Category Business Plans (CBP), leveraging data analytics, consumer insights, and market trends to achieve and exceed sales, margin, and market share targets. The Sr. CM collaborates closely with cross-functional teams, oversees vendor relationships, and provides guidance to Category Managers and other team members, ensuring alignment with overall business goals. This role demands a strategic thinker with robust analytical abilities, negotiation skills, and an ability to work independently in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. The Sr. CM will play a vital role in achieving business growth and competitive advantage by driving best-in-class category management practices and fostering innovation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• 5+ years of Category Management experience, with proven performance using Category Management tools.
• Previous experience in store operations or merchandising preferred.
• In-depth understanding of store operations and merchandising methodologies and practices.
• Experience with syndicated data.
• Strong knowledge base in supermarket retail and understanding of consumer behavior in relation to product performance.
• Strong planning and organizational skills.
• Experience in successfully leading, motivating and monitoring performance.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Well developed computer aptitude with proficient skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office.

Nice To Haves

• Experience writing and executing a detailed business plan.
• Strong client management skills, particularly working with vendors.
• Ability to influence and lead effective partnerships with the banners.
• Proven ability to work successfully across all areas of the company.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute annual Category Business Plans (CBPs) that align with broader business strategies and objectives.
• Establish and monitor quarterly and annual sales and margin targets for assigned categories or subcategories.
• Utilize advanced data analytics tools, including Nielsen data, to assess market trends, identify growth opportunities, and refine category strategies.
• Design innovative programs and products to differentiate the category in the market.
• Achieve or exceed sales and profitability targets through effective pricing, promotion, and assortment strategies.
• Evaluate the impact of pricing, promotion, and assortment strategies and adjust tactics as needed to drive continuous improvement.
• Regularly review category scorecards to track performance, identify trends, and align with profit and sales goals.
• Develop and manage category-specific pricing strategies, collaborating with the pricing team to implement consistent pricing guidelines and goals.
• Lead the design and execution of promotional calendars and ad space allocations.
• Negotiate terms for national deals and collaborate with senior leadership to maximize promotional opportunities across banners and departments.
• Optimize category assortment, deciding on new product introductions, item discontinuations, and markdown strategies.
• Cultivate strategic relationships with key suppliers, participating in national vendor negotiations to secure optimal terms.
• Provide guidance and oversight to Category Managers, Category Merch Specialists, and Analysts.
• Work closely with merchandising, store operations, and other teams to execute category plans seamlessly.
• Stay informed of industry trends, competitive dynamics, and emerging opportunities to refine strategies and introduce innovative approaches.
• Prepare and present regular reports on category performance, competitive landscape, and strategic initiatives to senior management.

Benefits

• Equal Opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive and respectful environment for all.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Merchant Wholesalers, Nondurable Goods
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree