Overview:
The Category Manager - Deli/Foodservice will achieve sales, profit and Guest satisfaction goals by acting as the category expert. Develops programs to position us to win in the marketplace.
Responsibilities:
- Ensures that products are organized into categories that reflect Guest buying habits.
- Using internal scan movement and IRI or Nielsen market data, develop and execute a plan for each category to achieve retail sales and gross margin profits, market share goals and specified positioning. Collaborates with vendor partners, retail operations, and warehouse (MDI and WLF). Considers how implementation of the plan at retail effects the total yield of the category and/or organization (Alex Lee).
- Determines the correct product assortment for our Guests in current and new markets. Works closely with our retail planning department to complete planograms and their successful implementation. Closely monitors the results of these resets to make sure we achieve the desired goals of the process.
- Negotiates with vendors for the lowest cost of goods. Understands and analyzes vendor cost and promotional allowance structures and how our net cost of goods compares to our competition.
- Sets promotional plans for items and categories that increase sales to the Guest, satisfy vendor requirements and achieve the desired total net profits. Works closely with marketing, eCommerce, and advertising to develop ideas for promotion and advertising and ensure their correct implementation.
- Stays abreast of changes in the marketplace in assigned categories (retail pricing, variety, etc.) by visiting our stores and the competition on a regular basis. Include regular visits to traditional competitors as well as non-traditional competition.
- Monitors retail prices and strategy. Recommends any changes necessary.
- Monitors results through internal data, IRI/Neilsen tracking, and vendor reporting. The Manager should be able to interpret this data and make informed decisions about the category.
- Works closely with members of the MDI/WLF buying staff to ensure we are achieving desired combined goals and service levels.
- Communicates all plans and promotions clearly to necessary parties.
Qualifications:
Candidate should possess the qualities associated with Alex Lee values. Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent experience) in business or related area. Retail store experience, preferably to at least the department manager or co-manager level. Previous category management experience in deli or foodservice is preferred. Candidate should be skilled in negotiation, analysis, planning and organizational skills. Computer proficiency in email, Excel, Word, Power BI, IRI, or Nielsen marketing systems, and other internal systems is necessary. Due to the need for influencing many areas of the Alex Lee organization, excellent interpersonal and communication skills are required, including conflict resolution.
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