Category Manager – Deli & Prepared Foods
Our client, a leading organization in the consumer goods and food industry, is seeking a passionate and strategic Category Manager to lead innovation, product assortment, pricing, merchandising, and vendor partnerships across assigned fresh and prepared food categories.
This role drives a consumer‑centric approach through trend‑forward strategy, 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 objectives and advancing the company’s growth vision.
How You’ll Make an Impact
Driving Growth & Innovation
- Develop and execute comprehensive category strategies that meet customer needs and deliver on financial goals
- Curate and manage a relevant, data‑informed product assortment rooted in quality, value, and market opportunity
- Lead the innovation pipeline for fresh and prepared food offerings in partnership with internal culinary and product development teams
- Act as a thought leader for category trends, innovation, and competitive insights
- Drive a consumer‑first approach through strategic assortment, merchandising, promotions, and pricing
- Establish base and promotional pricing to support margin and volume goals
- Identify and capitalize on opportunities through data analytics, consumer insights, and storytelling
- Support expansion of private label or exclusive product assortments based on emerging trends and gaps in the market
Executing Operational Excellence
- Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders including procurement, marketing, finance, and supply chain teams
- Collaborate cross‑functionally to improve visibility, product availability, and executional consistency across all channels
- Ensure inventory and supply plans align with category strategies and production timelines
- Partner with marketing and commercial teams to enhance product visibility and promotional effectiveness
- Champion a team culture that values collaboration, innovation, and inclusion
- Lead vendor negotiations to optimize cost, quality, and service agreements
- Identify cost‑saving opportunities and develop strategies to meet financial objectives
- Conduct analysis of category performance, pricing, promotions, and market trends to guide strategic decisions
- Collaborate with vendor and broker partners to activate category promotions and secure funding or marketing investments
- Seek and negotiate exclusive or limited‑edition products that differentiate the brand in the marketplace
- Maintain visibility into financial performance, inventory risks, and supply chain opportunities
- Work closely with finance to ensure accuracy in forecasting and payments
What You’ll Need
- A genuine passion for food, consumer trends, and innovation
- 5–8 years of experience in Category Management or related roles within consumer goods, manufacturing, or food production environments
- Strong communication, analytical, and problem‑solving skills
- Proven ability to manage multiple priorities with strong organization and follow‑through
- Demonstrated experience leading vendor relationships and negotiations
- Knowledge of merchandising, category strategy, and product lifecycle management
- Adaptable, collaborative, and solution‑oriented mindset
- Highly proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Word
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
- Competitive compensation and benefits package
- Strong organizational culture focused on growth, innovation, and team collaboration
- Opportunities for professional development, recognition, and career advancement
- A company that values creativity, data‑driven decision making, and meaningful product experiences
Confidentiality Disclaimer:
This is not the official job description for the position. It has been adjusted to protect the confidentiality of our client. A complete and official job description will be provided prior to any introduction or interview with the client.
Seniority level
- Mid‑Senior level
Employment type
- Full‑time
Job function
- Management, Strategy/Planning, and Customer Service
- Food and Beverage Retail, Retail, and Wholesale Food and Beverage