Company Overview

Kristen Distributing Company is a local, family-owned beverage distribution company based in the Bryan/College Station area, with a rich history dating back to 1930 when it was founded in Bellville, Texas. Our mission at Kristen Distributing Company is to uphold the highest standards by providing exceptional beverages that align with the manufacturer's marketing concepts. We are dedicated to fostering an environment that encourages personal independence, offers abundant opportunities, and prioritizes the development that enhances the strengths and dignity of our employees and customers.

Position Overview

The Space Category Manager plays a critical role in optimizing retail and on-premise space for our portfolio of products. This position is responsible for developing and executing space and category management strategies that drive sales growth, improve product visibility, and ensure retailer compliance with company standards. The role involves analyzing market data, leveraging planogram software, and collaborating with sales teams and retail partners to implement product placement strategies that enhance category performance.

Key Responsibilities

Your essential duties will include:

• Analyze syndicated data, sales trends, and retail performance to develop space and category strategies
• Design, maintain, and update planograms using software such as JDA (or similar tools)
• Collaborate with internal sales teams and retail partners to execute planograms and category initiatives
• Monitor and ensure compliance with space agreements and retail execution standards
• Lead resets, space audits, and store-level merchandising projects across key accounts
• Identify opportunities for category expansion, shelf optimization, and inventory improvement
• Provide space performance reports and make data-driven recommendations to improve visibility and sales
• Serve as the subject matter expert for category management within the organization
• Train and support field teams on planogram tools and best practices for retail execution
• Coordinate with suppliers and brand partners on category strategies and promotional execution
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned, showcasing flexibility and a willingness to contribute to team success.

Benefits

We value the dedication of our employees and offer an enticing range of benefits to ensure your well-being and satisfaction.

• Compensation: Competitive annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $70,000, based on experience and qualifications.
• Top-Tier Medical Coverage: Access a $0 deductible, $0 out-of-pocket health plan through Curative with 100% coverage for in-network care after completing a simple baseline assessment. Most generic prescriptions are also free when filled at preferred pharmacies.
• Dental, Vision, and Supplemental Coverage Options: Customize your benefits with voluntary plans for dental, vision, short- and long-term disability, accident, critical illness, and life insurance.
• Company-Paid Life & AD&D Insurance: Every full-time employee receives a $30,000 company-paid life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment policy at no cost.
• 401(k) with Company Match: Plan for your future with our retirement savings program, which includes a company match to help your money grow faster.
• Work-Life Balance: Recharge and rejuvenate with weekends off, empowering you to strike the perfect balance between your professional and personal life.
• Paid Time Off: Unwind and indulge in well-deserved relaxation with our generous paid time off policy, available after just six months of employment.
• Paid Holidays: Celebrate the joys of life with seven paid holidays annually, creating cherished moments with loved ones throughout the year.
• Efficient Paydays: Experience seamless and hassle-free paydays through our convenient bi-weekly pay schedule and direct deposit payment system, allowing you to focus on what matters most.
• Employee Counseling: Access free, confidential counseling from our dedicated on-staff counselor, providing invaluable support for life's everyday challenges.
• Provided Equipment: We furnish essential tools and technology to support employees in their roles, fostering productivity and seamless communication across the organization.

To be considered for this position, candidates should possess:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, or a related field
• 3 years of experience in category management, merchandising, or space planning
• Proficiency in planogram software (JDA, Blue Yonder, or equivalent) preferred
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret sales data and market insights
• Excellent communication, project management, and organizational skills
• Experience in the beverage, CPG, or retail industry strongly preferred
• Ability to manage multiple projects and timelines in a fast-paced environment
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel as needed