Category Manager [Service Deli]

DEPARTMENT:

JOB SUMMARY:

The Category Manager (Service Deli) has a pivotal role within our organization, serving as the linchpin between strategic vision and operational execution. This multifaceted position demands a unique blend of culinary creativity, analytical prowess, and a deep-seated understanding of the evolving food service within the service deli category and retail landscapes.

You will be at the forefront of our retail and service deli strategy, translating high-level concepts, such as freshness, convenience, and culinary innovation, into actionable plans and tactics. The ideal candidate will not only spearhead the category’s growth but will ensure the deli remains a destination that aligns with our overarching business objectives and profitability goals.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategic Category Development:
•    Analyze market trends, consumer behavior, and competitive deli landscapes to carve out a path for growth and innovation 
•    Guide product development, merchandising, and deli marketing strategies, ensuring that our prepared foods and programs are not only relevant but also ahead of the curve
Product Portfolio Management:
•    Make decisions that balance brand integrity with consumer desires, ensuring a premium "store-to-table" experience
•    Manage and curate the full product lifecycle from fresh perishables to innovative food service solutions; ensuring every offering aligns with brand standards for premium quality and drives high levels of customer satisfaction
Financial Oversight and Management:
•    Develop and maintain a budget that aligns with the company's financial goals and food service objectives
•    Analyze sales data and inventory costs to forecast financial trends and make informed purchasing decisions
•    Monitor and control food cost percentage (COGS) to ensure profitability while maintaining quality
•    Implement pricing strategies that reflect the value of our products without compromising customer satisfaction
•    Regularly review and adjust financial plans to adapt to volatile ingredient market changes and shifting business needs
•    Use financial data to drive strategic decisions and improve the overall financial health of the Service Deli department
Performance Monitoring and Analytics:
•    Utilize advanced data analytics to dissect complex sales trends, monitor inventory turnover rates, and decode customer preferences
•    Identify the subtle shifts in the market and translate them into actionable insights, ensuring that the category not only meets but exceeds performance benchmarks

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES (cont.):

Collaborative Execution:
•    Work with merchandisers, suppliers, integrated marketing and procurement teams, to ensure that each program offering is aligned with company’s strategic vision

•    Provide strategic leadership to ensure all departments clearly understand their specific roles and accountability measures required to achieve successful program and category outcomes
•    Interview and maintain consistent communication with sales representatives and our vendor community to negotiate terms, evaluate new opportunities, and strengthen partnerships
Innovation and Trend Adaptation:
•    Act as the primary trendsetter by identifying emerging consumer needs and proactively translating those insights into our product line 
•    Drive the development of forward-thinking food service solutions, ensuring all offerings remain ahead of industry trends and provide customers with a modernized, future-focused experience
Category Optimization:
•    Optimize the presentation, placement, and promotion of all offerings to ensure a cohesive and high-quality visual standard across the category
•    Create a seamless and engaging food service environment designed to drive brand loyalty, encourage repeat business, and generate positive word-of-mouth referrals
•    Conduct regular site visits to both SBM stores and competitors to analyze market trends, assess the competitive landscape, and identify growth opportunities
Regulatory Compliance:
•    Ensure all operations within our service deli category adhere to the highest standards of regulatory compliance
•    Exercise consistent oversight to identify and resolve operational discrepancies, safeguarding the brand’s integrity and trustworthiness
•    Any other duties as assigned 

REQUIREMENTS / QUALIFICATIONS:

•    Bachelor’s degree in Business or Marketing preferred
•    At least two (2) years of professional experience in Category Management preferred 
•    Minimum of two (2) years in a senior or lead role where you were responsible for cross-functional collaboration between Procurement, Marketing, and Operations
•    Three (3) years managing a perishable or "short-code" category (Deli, Bakery, Meat, or Produce) preferred 
•    Proven experience in recipe costing, menu engineering, or "grab-and-go" program development a plus
•    Valid CA Driver’s License with a good driving record 
•    Proven ability to build and maintain budgets that align with multi-year corporate financial goals
•    Demonstrated experience managing a complex P&L, with specific expertise in managing food cost percentages, labor optimization, and shrink reduction a plus
•    Expertise in Recipe Development and Food Service innovation preferred 
•    Proficient with Personal Computer to include Microsoft Office - Word, Excel, Spreadsheet skills, PowerPoint, and Calendar functions of Microsoft Outlook, etc.
•    Excellent oral and written communication skills
•    Strong problem solving, decision making, math and analytical skills
•    Ability to meet strict deadlines and work well in an intense and fast-paced environment 
•    Ability to deal effectively and professionally with all levels of individuals doing business from within and outside the company
•    Confidentiality, integrity, accuracy, and problem solving required