Associate Category Manager - Vitamins

OverviewThe Associate Category Manager plans and directs all aspects of product development policies, programs, objectives, and initiatives with oversight from the Senior Category Manager. This position will research new products, product enhancements, and product redesign that are consistent in meeting the expectations of Sprouts minimum standards for the department. The Associate Category Manager analyzes past buying trends, sales records, price, and quality of merchandise to determine value and velocity. This position selects, orders, and authorizes payment for merchandise according to contractual agreements.  Overview of ResponsibilitiesHelp outline and follow Sprouts standards for all products carried in the department and assure all vendor products meet those standards on quality and price. Provide the stores with relevant data to make informed decisions about the department and how to maximize profitability  Create programs with training that maximize sales, margin and minimize spoilage  Establish and manage inventory processes that ensure accurate accounting  Establish retail and promotional pricing on a regional or global basis to meet budgetary goals  Develop and maintain budget, sales, gross margins, and profit goals for department  Review all weekly, monthly, and quarterly statements  Develop and communicate easy to use weekly merchandising plans and directives for merchandiser and store use  Oversee all department marketing plans and ads, including weekly flyer, ROPs, etc  Develop training that enhances and encourages product knowledge growth and development  Keep the department fresh and appealing to customers by regularly incorporating new product into the overall product mix  Respond to vendor/customer issues as needed on a timely basis  Oversee the department to ensure the focus is on customer service, Sprouts' vision, profit, and employee development  Maintain awareness of Sprouts marketing strategies and competitive activity  Develop and maintain strong vendor relationships  Support and act as a liaison between Sprouts stores and vendors to assure quality products and department standards are being delivered  Supply clear direction for new & existing stores on proper department layout, schematics, opening orders, programs & training  Coordinate and source vendor participation for new store openings and resets  Ensure that all federal, state, and company regulations and standards for product freshness, safety, refrigeration, and sanitation are met  Develop strategies that keep Sprouts on the cutting edge of the industry  Determine staffing requirements, and interview, hire and train new employees, or oversee those personnel processes QualificationsPreferred Bachelor Degree in Business or related field with a minimum of five (5) years of departmental experience, with experience as Merchandiser or Manager preferred  Previous buying/negotiating experience required  Requires long-term strategic and financial planning skills  Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook and the Internet  Ability to preserve confidentiality of information, communicate with all levels of management and work within strict time frames and resolute deadlines  Complete understanding of P/L statements, general ledgers, and margins  Some travel required  Core Competencies Communication Customer Focus Driving for Results Positive Approach BenefitsIn addition to a rewarding career, Sprouts offers a comprehensive program to help support you and your family. These programs include:Competitive paySick time plan that you can use to support you or your immediate families healthVacation accrual planOpportunities for career growth15% discount for you and one other family member in your household on all purchases made at SproutsFlexible schedulesEmployee Assistance Program (EAP)401(K) Retirement savings plan with a generous company matchCompany paid life insuranceContests and appreciation events throughout the year full of prizes, food and fun!Eligibility requirements may apply for the following benefits:Bonus based on company and/or individual performanceAffordable benefit coverage, including medical, dental and visionHealth Savings Account with company matchPre-tax Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent careCompany paid short-term disability coveragePaid parental leave for both mothers and fathersPaid holidaysGet Paid Every Day!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. We offer DailyPay so you don’t have to wait for payday to access the money you’ve already worked for. With DailyPay, you can see how much you’ve made every day and you can transfer your money any time before payday. You can learn more by visiting .Why SproutsGrow with us!If you have a passion for inspiring people and a flair for fresh food, consider applying for a job at Sprouts! With a focus on customer service, our neighborhood grocery stores offer high-quality, farm fresh produce, natural meats, plenty of scoop-your-own bulk goods and much more in a fun, friendly, old-fashioned farmer’s market setting. Come grow your career in healthy living with a fast-paced, rapidly growing company and teams that pride themselves on empowering others along their journey.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.