Senior Category Manager - Associated Food Stores, Inc

WHO ARE WE?

• An organization that has distributed to and successfully supported grocery retailers in cities across the Intermountain West for more than 80 years
• A company that values its team members, their families, and communities
• A business that partners with multiple local organizations to fundraise, donate to and sponsor charitable activities and events

WHY JOIN THE TEAM?

• Comprehensive benefits offering (health, dental, vision, life, 401(k), vacation and sick leave as well as unique team member perks and discounts)
• Tuition reimbursement program
• Opportunities for advancement

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Senior Category Manager to join our dynamic procurement team, specializing in general merchandise and health, beauty, and wellness categories. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in driving sales and profitability through effective merchandising strategies and a strong understanding of end-user needs. You will play a key role in managing our Promotions Management software and collaborating across departments to optimize category performance.

As the Senior Category Manager, you will oversee sales, gross margin, and merchandising activities for assigned product categories within both wholesale and retail channels. Your responsibilities will include:

• Strategic Planning: Lead the communication and seasonal planning of item selection, pricing, promotions, and shelf allocation to maximize category performance.
• Vendor Relations: Build and maintain strong relationships with vendor partners to negotiate pricing, promotional strategies, funding, and item assortment.
• Collaboration: Work closely with internal marketing teams and the Space Management department to develop and implement effective promotional events and advertising campaigns.
• Data Analysis: Analyze a variety of data sources, including consumer research, scanner data, competitive insights, and category performance metrics, to inform decision-making and strategy.
• Promotional Management: Effectively manage promotional funds to drive retail sales and enhance profitability while ensuring a balanced item mix of new and discontinued products.
• Project Management: Lead special projects and perform additional duties as assigned.

Position Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in business, Marketing, Finance, Accounting, or a related field preferred.
• A minimum of eight years of relevant experience, with retail experience highly desirable.
• Strong background in Grocery or Frozen Category Management preferred.
• Proficiency in MS Office and database management, with demonstrated analytical and financial skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey information clearly and effectively.
• Exceptional negotiation and relationship-building abilities.
• Strong attention to detail and the capacity to manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously.
• Regular on-site attendance is required, along with the use of a personal vehicle for travel.

This job description outlines the key responsibilities and requirements for the Senior Category Manager position but is not exhaustive. Additional duties may be assigned as deemed necessary by management.

Join us in making a significant impact on our procurement efforts and help drive our business to new heights!

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.

PI250871040