Frozen and Dairy Category Manager

We are seeking a strategic and detail-oriented Frozen and Dairy Category Manager to support and optimize the Frozen and Dairy departments. This role is responsible for coordinating merchandising plans, managing vendor relationships, and driving category sales and profitability. Acting as a liaison between stores, suppliers, and brokers, the Category Manager will develop promotional programs, oversee new product introductions, and analyze market trends to maintain a competitive edge. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of the supermarket sector, particularly in a co-op environment, and excels in category management and cross-functional collaboration.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Merchandising & Category Management:

· Develop and coordinate weekly merchandising plans and ad programs for the Frozen and Dairy departments to drive sales, profitability, and customer engagement.

· Optimize product placement, planograms, and shelf layouts to maximize visibility and sales performance.

2. Vendor & Supplier Relations:

· Establish and maintain strong relationships with brokers, vendors, and suppliers to negotiate contracts and secure promotional funding.

· Work closely with suppliers to introduce new products, optimize assortments, and ensure competitive pricing.

3. Sales & Margin Optimization:

· Manage product categories to achieve planned sales, margin, and income goals while analyzing performance data to identify opportunities for growth.

· Develop and implement pricing strategies that balance profitability with competitive positioning.

4. Competitive Analysis:

· Monitor competitor pricing, promotions, and product offerings to adjust category strategies accordingly.

· Analyze market trends and consumer insights to identify new opportunities and respond to changing customer demands.

5. Product Introductions & Distribution:

· Oversee new product launches, store distributions, seasonal promotions, and category resets.

· Ensure seamless communication with store teams regarding new items, merchandising updates, and discontinued products.

6. Data Analysis & Reporting:

· Utilize sales data, IRI, and internal reporting tools to track category performance and adjust strategies as needed.

· Prepare performance reports and recommendations for leadership based on sales trends and inventory data.

7. Store & Member Support:

· Act as a liaison between stores, suppliers, and brokers, addressing retailer needs and providing merchandising recommendations.

· Conduct store visits to assess category execution, gather feedback, and provide in-person support

8. Promotions & Pricing Integrity:

· Review weekly promotional movement, validate cost and retail accuracy, and ensure compliance with pricing strategies.

· Develop promotional plans in collaboration with marketing and vendor partners to drive sales and customer engagement.

9. Internal Communication & Coordination:

· Prepare and distribute weekly informational memos, category updates, and merchandising instructions to stores.

10. Strategic Initiatives:

· Support internal initiatives, including food shows, coupon books, and marketing events, to strengthen vendor partnerships and drive category growth.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• College Degree in Business, Marketing/Advertising or other relevant discipline
• 4 years of experience in advertising, preferably within the supermarket or retail industry.
• Sales and Marketing knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Working knowledge of MS Excel, Word, Outlook and Power Point skills for presentation needs

Location

• Iselin, NJ

Position Type

• Full Time, Exempt

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $85,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• AD&D insurance
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Prescription drug insurance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Ability to Commute:

• Iselin, NJ 08830 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Iselin, NJ 08830: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $85,000 - $100,000