Category Manager

Job Summary The Category Manager is responsible for sales, gross margin, profitability, and merchandising activities of the assigned product categories for wholesale and retail. This includes the communication, planning, and seasonal planning of item selection, pricing, promotions, and shelf allocation. Category Managers build relationships with vendor partners and negotiate item pricing, strategies, promotional and advertising funding, and item assortment. This role works closely with internal Marketing groups and the Space Management team. This position will focus on chicken and seafood, fresh and frozen. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The Category Manager works closely with the assistant to input item information Utilizes computer software to manage, track, and implement category information Negotiates promotional and merchandising events Manages and utilizes promotional funds to drive sales and profitability at retail Develops effective, creative, and innovative ad, promotional, and seasonal programs Analyzes and understands a host of data and information, including consumer research, scanner data, competitive information from syndicated data, performance, and relationships of categories, and detailed profit and loss statements of categories Ensures strategies and tactics of assigned categories are implemented with a balanced item mix, including new and discontinued items Category Managers work on special projects and perform other duties as assigned or requested POSITION REQUIREMENTS Bachelor's degree preferred (business, marketing, finance, accounting, or related field desired) Five years of relevant experience (retail experience preferred) Strong relationship‑building skills to negotiate with suppliers and vendors for better pricing and terms Ability to handle multiple projects and tasks with a high attention to detail Excellent verbal and written communication skills Analyzing data and market insights to identify category opportunities and risks Developing and implementing category strategies and plans Collaborating with marketing and sales teams to ensure category growth Overseeing category product ranges and making decisions about product life cycle Monitoring and analyzing category performance and making necessary adjustments Collaborating with the buying team to ensure product availability Forecasting revenue and product demand to meet sales and revenue targets Command of MS Office, database with demonstrated knowledge and ability Regular in‑office on‑site attendance is required Use of a personal vehicle is required for travel Associated Food Stores is an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr