Senior Category Manager

Senior Category ManagerPosition SummaryWe are seeking a strategic and results-driven Director of Grocery Merchandising to lead a $400M grocery business across 650+ retail locations in 42 states. This leadership role is responsible for driving category strategy, sales growth, profitability, supplier partnerships, and operational excellence across multiple grocery and non-food product categories.The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in category management, merchandising, supplier negotiations, inventory planning, and P&L management, with a proven track record of leading high-performing teams and delivering measurable business results in a large-scale retail environment.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the strategic direction, financial performance, and operational success of a $400M grocery business.Manage multiple product categories, including snacks, candy, frozen foods, shelf-stable products, health & beauty, and non-food merchandise.Own category P&L performance, including budgeting, forecasting, inventory management, sales growth, and profitability.Develop and execute annual and long-term merchandising strategies, assortment plans, pricing initiatives, and promotional programs.Partner with 110+ suppliers and distribution partners to negotiate contracts, drive category growth, optimize space allocation, and improve business performance.Build and maintain strong relationships with key CPG manufacturers and industry partners.Lead, coach, and develop merchandising professionals through performance management, succession planning, and talent development initiatives.Collaborate cross-functionally with Marketing, Operations, Finance, Supply Chain, Legal, and Loyalty teams to execute enterprise-wide objectives.Analyze market trends, customer insights, and business performance data to identify growth opportunities and improve category results.Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements while effectively managing promotional funding, supplier agreements, and merchandising initiatives.Resolve complex business and operational challenges while driving continuous improvement across the organization.Required QualificationsExtensive experience in Category Management, Merchandising, or Retail Buying Leadership.Proven success managing large-scale retail business units with full P&L responsibility.Strong experience in: Category Management, Strategic Sourcing, Supplier Relationship Management, Contract Negotiation, Inventory Planning & Forecasting, Data-Driven Decision Making, Merchandising Strategy, Retail Operations, Budget Management, Market Analysis.Demonstrated ability to influence Senior stakeholders and lead cross-functional initiatives.Exceptional leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.Experience managing and developing high-performing teams.Preferred QualificationsBachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, Merchandising, or a related field.Experience working with large national retail chains, grocery retailers, or consumer packaged goods (CPG) organizations.Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate business insights into strategic action.What You'll BringExecutive-level business acumen and merchandising expertise.A strategic mindset with a focus on growth, profitability, and customer engagement.Strong leadership capabilities with a passion for developing people and building successful partnerships.The ability to balance long-term vision with flawless execution in a fast-paced retail environment.Experience Level: Senior / Executive Leadership (10+ years preferred)Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Knoxville, TN.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $140,000.00 - $175,000.00/hr.Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 5, 2026.Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Knoxville, TN.