Associate Category Manager - Deli

Overview Associate Category Manager - Deli is responsible for the development and execution of customer‑focused category strategies for assigned Deli categories. This position owns all aspects of category performance including assortment planning, product innovation, merchandising, pricing, promotions, sourcing, and supplier management while partnering with the Deli Director on broader department initiatives. The role is based in Phoenix with a hybrid schedule: office Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Responsibilities Own Category Performance Develop and execute annual and seasonal category plans aligned with department and company objectives Own sales, margin, shrink, and inventory turn performance for assigned categories Monitor business performance and proactively identify opportunities and risks Utilize data, reporting, and customer insights to drive category decisions Develop and implement action plans to achieve financial objectives Lead Category Strategy & Execution Own assortment planning, pricing, promotion, merchandising, and product lifecycle management for assigned categories Manage item introductions, product transitions, category reviews, and resets Evaluate product performance and make assortment recommendations that improve customer experience and financial performance Partner with operations teams to ensure effective execution in stores Support new store openings and category expansion initiatives Drive Innovation & Customer Focus Identify emerging trends, customer needs, and competitive opportunities Partner with suppliers and cross‑functional teams to develop new products and programs Lead product evaluations, testing, and launch activities Continuously improve assortment productivity and differentiation Manage Supplier Partnerships Build and maintain strong relationships with supplier partners Support negotiations, business reviews, cost management initiatives, and promotional planning Work closely with suppliers to improve product quality, packaging, service levels, and innovation Collaborate with sourcing and supply chain teams to ensure consistent product availability Cross‑Functional Leadership Lead and participate in cross‑functional project teams Partner with Operations, Marketing, Culinary, Supply Chain, Finance, Food Safety, and Procurement teams to execute category strategies Provide stores with information, tools, and guidance that support successful category execution Organize and participate in meetings, workshops, and supplier presentations to support business objectives Qualifications Preferred bachelor's degree in business or related field with a minimum of three (3) years of merchandising, category management, buying, or business planning experience Previous buying, sourcing, or vendor management experience preferred Requires long‑term strategic and financial planning skills and a customer‑focused mindset Strong analytical, financial, and problem‑solving skills Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and reporting tools Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of the organization Complete understanding of P&L statements, margins, and inventory management Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment Some travel required Benefits Competitive pay Sick time plan to support your health and the health of immediate family Vacation accrual plan Opportunities for career growth 15% discount for you and one other family member in your household on all purchases at Sprouts Flexible schedules Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match Company‑paid life insurance Bonus based on company and/or individual performance Affordable benefit coverage, including medical, dental and vision Health Savings Account with company match Pre‑tax Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent care Company‑paid short‑term disability coverage Paid parental leave for both mothers and fathers Paid holidays DailyPay Sprouts Farmers Market offers DailyPay. If you’re hired as an eligible employee, you’ll be able to transfer the money you’ve already earned at no extra cost and get it the next business day for free. DailyPay allows you to see how much you’ve made every day and to transfer your money any time before payday. Learn more at The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by people assigned to this work. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and requirements. Sprouts’ management reserves the right to amend and change duties, responsibilities, and requirements to meet business and organizational needs as necessary. Sprouts will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance. California Residents: We collect information in accordance with California law; please see here for more information. #J-18808-Ljbffr Sprouts Farmers Market