Category Manager

Title : Category Manager

Location : Elizabeth, NJ 07201

Schedule : Onsite; Monday-Friday 8-5pm

Salary : $100,000 - $115,000

Bonus : Up to 30% based on company performance

Benefits : 401k match 50% up to 6% - Health/Dental/Vision - HRA/HAS/FSA - Employee Stock Purchase Plan - PTO/Sick Days/Holidays; 4 days personal time off, after a year; 2 weeks of vacation (after 4 years; 3 weeks plus personal and sick time)

Why You Should Apply:

This role supports one of the largest and most respected foodservice distribution companies in North America, with over 100 years in the industry and a coast-to-coast presence. You'll work with a high-performing team that's passionate about helping independent restaurants and hospitality businesses thrive.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Manage assigned product categories across purchasing, vendor relations, and financial performance
  
  
• Monitor and optimize inventory levels to support strong service levels while improving inventory turns
  
  
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, freight terms, rebates, and cash discounts with vendors
  
  
• Analyze reports and resolve over-committed items, stock discrepancies, and slow-moving or excess inventory
  
  
• Coordinate returns and vendor bill-backs; work closely with AP to ensure accurate deductions
  
  
• Act as the go-to contact for multi-unit account managers, internal stakeholders, and vendor reps
  
  
• Oversee quality issues like recalls and product expiration, ensuring safe and timely handling
  
  
• Support customer audits and internal compliance efforts related to product pricing and costing
  
  
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts and cross-departmental alignment

What We're Looking For:

• 4-6+ years of experience in foodservice distribution and procurement (6-10 years preferred for leadership consideration)
  
  
• Exposure to non-foods or indirect materials, such as packaging, janitorial, or disposables, is a strong plus
  
  
• Deep understanding of vendor negotiations, freight terms, pricing strategy, and inventory management
  
  
• Strong analytical and communication skills; must be highly organized and detail-oriented
  
  
• Experience collaborating across departments including Sales, Finance, and Operations