Senior Category Analyst - Drug Channel

Who We Are

At C.A. Carlin, we take brands to new heights. We are one of the leading privately held sales agencies in the industry. Thanks to nimble growth and associations with our operating partners, C.A. Fortune and C.A. Ferolie, we have built brand value that is unlike any other in the CPG industry.

What We Do

Since our start in 1962, we have built industry relationships on the foundation of trust and action. We turn information into insight. We convert insight into programs. We drive programs that consistently deliver results to our clients, on their timeline.

We have more than 300 associates and multiple offices throughout the country. We represent top brands in many categories such as confection, snack, grocery, beverage, frozen, dairy etc.

Overview Of The Role

• The Senior Category Analyst plays a critical role in driving category growth by delivering strategic insights and actionable recommendations based on robust data analysis. This position requires strong analytical skills, the ability to define clear and compelling narratives for clients, and the capacity to influence and coach both internal and external stakeholders. The Senior Category Analyst will lead major project initiatives, provide mentorship to junior analysts, and serve as a trusted advisor to clients, business managers, and the leadership team.
• Location: Hybrid - Schaumburg, IL 2-3 days in office
• Salary: $75,000 - $85,000 depending on years of experience and expertise
• 5-10% travel requirements to aid in client presentations if needed
• At C.A. we’re not looking for perfection, just people that want to commit to a us and grow their careers long-term. We are on a mission to build better brands for consumers and their families. If you’re looking for a sign to apply, here it is!
  
  

What You’ll Do At C.A. Carlin

Advanced Data Analysis and Insights:

• Confidently analyze and interpret complex sales data, market trends, and consumer insights to identify growth opportunities.
• Develop and present a clear, compelling story that aligns with the strategic goals of both clients and retailers.
• Create data-driven strategies for category management that support client growth objectives and retailer goals.
  
  

Client And Stakeholder Collaboration

• Establish strong working relationships with clients, business managers, and retailers, understanding their needs and aligning category strategies accordingly.
• Act as a key point of contact for business managers, providing clear takeaways and strategic recommendations that drive decision-making.
• Communicate timelines consistently, accelerating project delivery over time and ensuring efficient follow-through.
• Deep understanding of client needs, expectations, and preferences, tailoring insights and strategies accordingly.
• Adaptable and responsive to changing client demands and market dynamics.
  
  

Project Leadership And Initiative Management

• Lead major project initiatives from conception to execution, ensuring alignment with broader organizational goals.
• Independently manage and solve complex problems, balancing short-term priorities with long-term strategic concerns.
• Exceptional organizational skills to manage multiple projects and initiatives simultaneously, while maintaining high attention to detail.
  
  

Influence, Coaching, And Team Leadership

• Provide leadership and mentorship to junior analysts guiding them on how to approach and execute projects effectively.
• Serve as a trusted advisor and coach, fostering collaboration, and sharing best practices across teams.
• Influence internal and external stakeholders by demonstrating thought leadership and category expertise.
  
  

What You Should Bring To The Table

• 5 years CPG analytical experience
• Familiarity with category management principles, retail analytics, and market research tools.
• Proficiency in interpreting data and making strategic recommendations that align with business goals.
• Strong critical thinking skills to analyze alternative options and implications, providing clients with actionable insights.
  
  

You Will Stand Out if You Have

• Extensive CPG industry sales organization experience, in a sales/analytical capacity in food and/or beverage
• Prior experience supporting the drug channel
• Proficiency in data analysis tools and software (e.g., Excel, Power BI)
• Experience with syndicated data (e.g., Nielsen, Circana, Unify , Spins)
• Consumer Panel & Shopper Behavior analysis experience
  
  

Perks

• 16 days of PTO
• 11 paid company holidays per year
• 2 paid volunteer days per year
• 3 months fully paid parental leave (regardless of gender)
• Bonus eligible
• Medical, dental, and vision
• Paid company life insurance
• 401k with company match
• Summer hours (half day Fridays from Memorial Day thru Labor Day)
• Work from home flexibility
  
  

Come As You Are

C.A. is committed to making our company more inclusive. Diversity fuels our innovation and better connects us to our clients, our colleagues, and our communities. Based on research, we know that women and other marginalized groups tend to apply to roles only when their experience perfectly matches the job description. That said, we encourage you to apply if you meet the majority of qualifications, especially if this role aligns with your career trajectory.