category manager, fresh & prepared foods (on-site in chesterfield, mo) dierbergs markets is seeking a passionate and strategic
category manager to lead innovation, product assortment, pricing, merchandising, and vendor partnerships in assigned categories with a focus on fresh and prepared foods innovation. this role drives a consumer-centric approach through trend-forward strategies, culinary insights, and collaborative cross-functional planning. by delivering exceptional product experiences and staying ahead of market trends, the category manager plays a key role in achieving financial goals and advancing our grow every day purpose.
how you'll make an impact driving sales growth - responsible for producing a comprehensive and cohesive category strategy which successfully meets the needs of our customers and achieves financial goals
- curate and manage a relevant, data-informed product assortment rooted in value, quality, and market gaps
- leads innovation pipeline for fresh and prepared foods product offering, in partnership with prepared foods managers and ck team. proactively explore opportunities and partnerships to drive category success
- responsible for thought leadership and category expertise around trends and category innovation
- drive the day-to-day activities of a selling organization culture with a consumer-centric focus through assortment, merchandising, promotions and pricing responsibilities
- establish base and promotional pricing that meets the category financial goals
- aggressively maximize opportunities and mitigate risks through promotions, pricing, product placement and effective storytelling
- be a fierce student of the customer, the category and the competition
- utilize data analytics to gain actionable insights, guide decision-making and inform category strategies
- expand private label product assortment and development by utilizing data to identify gaps and new product trends to address market needs.
executing operational standards - build and foster relationships with internal and external stakeholders including (but not limited to) store operations, vendors, core managers, peers, marketing and host
- partner with internal and external teams to solve customer pain points, make products easy to find and purchase while providing excellent customer service at all times
- work to ensure proper inventory levels are in line with production demands and plans
- work directly with the department supervisor (operations) to ensure operational standards are met; driving consistency and excellence in the execution of category strategies, displays and customer service
- partner with the promotions team to ensure maximum product awareness in store and online
- foster a work environment that embodies the core values of dierbergs, champion and develop a diverse and inclusive team environment
managing cost & financial performance - lead vendor negotiations and develop strong, collaborative partnerships to optimize cost, quality, and service
- identify and present opportunities for cost savings and tailor strategies to meet financial goals
- conduct in-depth analysis of consumer data that includes pricing and promotion effectiveness, market trends, assortment evaluation and competitive analysis
- continually evaluate retail pricing based using tools and analysis; make recommendations to achieve category goals
- partner with vendors and brokers to plan and activate promotions across stores and digital channels, securing funding and investments (e.g. discounts, pips, media) to support long-term growth
- negotiate compelling discounts, offers and savings
- seek out and execute special buys and exclusive products that differentiate dierbergs in the marketplace
- create visibility into category opportunities, risks, inventory commitments, and supply constraints
- partner closely with finance team to ensure payments are received timely and accurately
what you'll need - a true passion for food is essential!
- 5-8 years of experience in category management or related roles within food, grocery retail, food service
- strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with strong attention to detail and accuracy
- demonstrated ability to organize, prioritize and manage multiple projects with consistent follow-through
- proven analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data, assess market trends, and improve results
- exceptional interpersonal skills; professional, approachable, and receptive to others' ideas and feedback
- proven negotiation skills and experience managing vendor relationships
- knowledge of merchandising and category management, retail operations, replenishment and item management systems preferred
- able to adapt to change and manage competing priorities in a positive, solution-oriented manner
- effectively collaborates with various functions in the business. contributes to cross-functional projects
- highly proficient with microsoft office, specifically word and excel
- bs or ba preferred
why dierbergs is right for you - health and retirement benefitsincluding medical, dental, short-term and long-term disability, 401(k) with company match, fsa, and life insurance
- weekly pay
- paid time offprovided, including sick days
- employee assistance programfor you and your family to assist in many of life's challenges, from short-term counseling, legal questions to financial guidance
- associate-only savings, free products, bonus points, sweepstakesand more - being a part of our team has its perks with dierbergs rewards
- wellness initiatives and volunteer opportunitiesto keep you healthy, engaged and involved
- rewards, recognition and appreciationprograms and events to spotlight you and your exceptional talents
- opportunity to grow every dayby building knowledge, supporting growth and creating connections - let's grow!
- career advancementand growth opportunities throughgrowu, our learning & development program for current and future leaders
this job description is representative only and is not all inclusive of the responsibilities that the associate may be required to perform.
