Category Manager jobs in Wichita, KS

Description

About Us:

We are a leading convenience and gas chain committed to constant innovation, pushing the boundaries to change the world and create a profound impact on the lives of others. Our growing presence spans across several markets in Kansas, where we offer superior customer service and quality products at competitive prices. We thrive on our mission not only to serve our customers but also to become a catalyst for positive change in our communities. As we continue to expand, we are looking for a dynamic and dedicated individual who shares our values and vision to join our team.

**Job Summary:**

As a Category Manager in the retail industry, you will be responsible for driving sales through center store profitability. Additionally structuring programs to support our new customer loyalty campaign. You will oversee the entire lifecycle from selection and procurement to pricing, promotion, and inventory management. By analyzing market trends, consumer behavior, and competitive landscape, you will develop strategies to maximize sales and optimize the assortment mix to meet customer demands. Collaboration with cross-functional teams such as marketing, operations, and supply chain is essential to ensure alignment with overall business objectives.

**Responsibilities:**

1. **Category Strategy Development:** Develop comprehensive category strategies aligned with overall business objectives, considering market trends, customer preferences, and competitive landscape.

2. **Assortment Planning:** Curate a well-balanced assortment mix within the category, ensuring a diverse range of products to meet varying customer needs and preferences.

3. **Vendor Management:** Source, evaluate, and negotiate with vendors to secure favorable terms, including pricing, discounts, and promotional support.

4. **Product Lifecycle Management:** Manage the entire product lifecycle, from selection and introduction to end-of-life, ensuring optimal inventory levels and timely clearance of obsolete items.

5. **Pricing and Promotion:** Implement pricing strategies and promotional activities to drive sales and maximize profitability while remaining competitive in the market.

6. **Performance Analysis:** Continuously monitor category performance metrics, including sales, margin, inventory turnover, and market share, and take corrective actions as necessary.

7. **Market Research:** Conduct market research and analysis to identify emerging trends, consumer preferences, and competitive threats, and leverage insights to make data-driven decisions.

8. **Loyalty Program:** Collaborate with marketing, merchandising, operations, and finance to ensure alignment of loyalty program strategies meet assigned objectives.

9. **Space Planning:** Collaborate with space planning teams to optimize product placement and visual merchandising within stores, enhancing the shopping experience and maximizing sales potential.

10. **Forecasting and Inventory Management:** Work closely with inventory planning teams to forecast demand, optimize inventory levels, and minimize stock outs and overstock situations.

11. **Compliance and Vendor Relationships:** Ensure compliance with vendor agreements, contracts, and legal requirements, and foster strong relationships with key vendors to drive mutual success.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Merchandising, or related field.

- Minimum 3 years proven experience in convenience or grocery category management.

- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and draw actionable insights.

- Proficiency in Tableau or Power Bi report creation.  

- Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills.

- Proficiency in using analytical tools and software for market research and performance analysis.

- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams.

- Detail-oriented with a strategic mindset and the ability to think critically and creatively.

- Demonstrated ability to thrive in a fast-paced, independent environment and adapt to changing business needs.

**Note:** This job description serves as a general guideline and may be adjusted based on the specific requirements of the hiring organization.