Junior Category Manager

Summary

Lidl US is looking for our next Junior Buyer (Junior Category Manager) to join our Buying team! Are you obsessed with what goes into a shopping cart? Do you have an analytical mind and an eye for the next big trend?

Lidl is one of the largest retailers in the world, and we didn't get there by accident. We got there by having the best Buying Team in the business. We are currently expanding our Purchasing team and looking for ambitious individuals with an interest in buying to join our latest team. This isn't a 'shadowing' role where you sit on the sidelines. This is a fast-paced, high-impact path where you will learn to negotiate, analyze, and innovate alongside our Senior Category Managers. If you want to learn what best-in-class retail looks like from a global leader, we’re ready for you!

What You’ll Do

Essential Functions

• Manages projects, work processes, systems, and/or procedures to ensure efficient workflow
• Update guidelines, standard operating procedures, and instructional materials
• Identify, develop, and propose opportunities for business and process improvement
• Support in national and international projects, producing business requirements, performing business system tests and technical improvements
• Master the Data: Analyze various KPIs in coordination with Category Managers and Senior Category Managers to drive informed buying decisions
• Think Globally: Support national and international product development, defining quality, shaping business requirements, and testing the technical improvements that power our global scale
• The Art of the Deal: Prepare and collect the critical information needed to process major purchase agreements and contracts
• Build Relationships: Support negotiations and maintain ongoing coordination with our diverse network of domestic and international suppliers
• Trend Forecast: Prepare category, quality control, and trend analyses to keep Lidl ahead of the retail curve
• Monitor the Landscape: Analyze retail prices and the competitive landscape to ensure our value remains unbeatable
• Quality Guard: Lead the way in product tastings and quality assurance for negotiated item; if it’s on our shelves, it passed through you
• Own Your Growth: Commit to and complete a personalized Individual Development Plan designed to enhance your skills and grow your career

What You’ll Need

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently with excellent follow-through skills
• Proficient in Google Workspace, Microsoft Office Suite, or related software

Required Education, Certifications/ Licenses, Related Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Retail, Fashion Merchandising, or a related field
• 2-4 years of experience in a related field
• In lieu of degree, 5+ years of experience in related field will meet the education and related experience requirements listed above

Preferred Education, Certifications/ Licenses, Related Experience

• 1–6 months of purchasing experience in a grocery retail setting

Physical Job Requirements

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times

Travel Requirements

• This position commutes between stores, regional offices and/or distribution centers up to 25% of the time
• This position requires overnight domestic travel less than 25% of the time

What You’ll Receive

At Lidl, we know that in order for our people to do their best, they must be at their best. That’s why as a company, we offer one of the most generous benefits packages in the industry.

All our Lidl employees are eligible to receive the following benefits:

• Medical & Prescription | Dental | Vision coverage
• Paid Holiday & Paid Time Off (PTO) to use for sickness or vacation
• Dedicated training plans to ensure you are set up for success
• 401K Plan (+ 5% company match)
• Voluntary Term Life & AD&D Insurance
• Total Well-Being Program
• DailyPay, a voluntary benefit to offer employees access to their pay on their own schedule

Lidl US views our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) through a lens of actions that are Good for the Environment, Good for People, and Good for You.