What are the responsibilities and job description for the VP, Merchandising & Category Strategy (Grocery) position at Irvine Technology?
VP, Merchandising & Category Strategy (Grocery) We are seeking a transformational merchandising executive to join our client, a successful and growing grocery retailer in the Western US. This is an opportunity to rebuild and revitalize a core merchandising department, bringing structure, strategy, and innovation to a high-impact role. If you have a vision for category growth, deep vendor expertise, and a passion for optimizing product offerings, this is your chance to make a lasting impact.This is a high-impact, high-visibility role where the right leader will transform a broken merchandising function into a well-oiled, profitable machine.Location : Onsite in Central CaliforniaCompensation : This is a full-time role expected to pay a base salary of about $270-320k , a strong bonus and benefits, as well as a generous relocation package!What You Will Do : Lead the strategic restructuring and modernization of the merchandising function for center-store categories (canned, boxed, and packaged goods).Develop and execute annual planning with suppliers, driving sales, profitability, and innovation across product lines.Manage vendor negotiations and relationships, ensuring optimal pricing, terms, and supply chain efficiency.Oversee budgeting and forecasting, aligning financial targets with business objectives.Utilize Symphony AI and other analytics tools to enhance assortment, pricing, and promotional strategies.Work closely with outsourced distribution partners to manage wholesale and logistics financials.Partner cross-functionally with marketing, finance, and operations to drive category growth and customer satisfaction.What Gets You The Job : 10 years of experience in grocery or retail merchandising, with a strong focus on center-store categories.Proven track record in vendor management, supplier negotiations, and annual planning.Expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and P&L ownership for a multi-category business.Deep understanding of third-party distribution models and financial structures related to wholesale partnerships.Experience using Symphony AI or similar merchandising analytics tools.Strong leadership skills with a history of driving change and implementing process improvements.Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment, balancing strategic vision with hands-on execution.Irvine Technology Corporation (ITC) is a leading provider of technology and staffing solutions for IT, Security, Engineering, and Interactive Design disciplines servicing startups to enterprise clients, nationally. We pride ourselves in the ability to introduce you to our intimate network of business and technology leaders – bringing you opportunity coupled with personal growth and professional development! Join us. Let us catapult your career!Irvine Technology Corporation provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Irvine Technology Corporation complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.Seniority level ExecutiveEmployment type Full-timeJob function ManagementIndustries Retail and Food and Beverage Retail#J-18808-Ljbffr
Salary : $270,000 - $320,000
