Category Manager; Beer, Wine & Spirits

We are searching for a Category Manager (Beer, Wine & Spirits) for our Store Support Center located at 600 Citadel Drive, Commerce, CA.

The Category Manager reports to the Senior Category Manager and manages specific food and non-food categories. Has responsibility for all facets of business within the assigned categories.

• Negotiates with vendors for cost of goods, promotional dollars, rebates, delivery terms, payment terms and growth incentives within corporate guidelines.
• Becomes the category leader during major category reviews and analysis. Is responsible for interdepartmental communication among all related areas that are affected by and have an effect on the category being reviewed, including space management, marketing, operations, merchandising and any other department that should be involved in major reviews.
• Maintains awareness in market trends and analyzes market data from IRI, Nielsen and other reliable sources.
• Stays updated on all competitive situations for key items and reacts when necessary.
• Interviews vendors for new product presentations and makes decision on new items.
• Determines what products will be advertised and promoted in the stores.
• Analyzes product profitability, selection, display and assortment using category management practices.
• Ability to analyze external and internal data, interpret and make decisions and recommendations to management based on this data.
• Work with corporate brands to develop private label product line to enhance sales and profits.
• Works with Replenishment Buyer in managing inventory turns, service level, order cycles, deal implementation and general supply chain practices.
• Budgets and monitors sales and margin plans of assigned categories in accordance with company overall goals.
• Audits competitive product selection displays and pricing through on-site visits.
• Directs merchandising and pricing departments to maximize sales and profits in assigned categories.

Candidates must have a Bachelor's degree (B.A. or B.S.) from a four-year college or university, two years relevant experience, and/or equivalent combination of education and experience. Retail Management Program Certification desired.

• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, communication skills both oral and written, and strong analytical skills.
• Strong negotiation skills.
• Ability to develop, manipulate, format and share spreadsheets for purposes of analysis.
• Knowledge of Access or a similar relational database is desirable.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook and general ability to adapt to new software.

The starting salary for this position is $. The actual starting pay will be determined by a number of qualifications, including experience and relevant skills.

Our company 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.