Category Manager

Performance Food Group is seeking a Category Manager to lead strategic sourcing and assortment optimization in our Food & Beverage Operations. Reporting to Supply Chain, Logistics & Procurement, you will own category strategy, analyze pricing and demand, negotiate with suppliers, and drive cost savings while protecting service and quality. You'll collaborate with sales, operations, and finance to develop promotions, forecast demand, and manage inventory health.

This role thrives on data analytics, vendor relationship management, and cross-functional leadership in a fast-paced distribution environment aligned with PFG's safety-first, customer-centered culture.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies for assigned food & beverage portfolios to meet margin, cost, and service goals.
• Analyze sales, margin, and market data to optimize assortment, pricing, and promotional plans.
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms with suppliers to drive savings and secure supply.
• Collaborate with supply chain, logistics, and procurement to align inventory levels with demand forecasts.
• Partner with sales and marketing to build customer-focused programs and support key accounts.
• Monitor supplier performance, quality, and service; address issues and drive continuous improvement.
• Conduct market and competitive analysis to identify trends, innovations, and new product opportunities.
• Manage item lifecycle including introductions, rationalizations, and transitions to minimize obsolescence.
• Prepare business cases, reports, and presentations for leadership on category performance and initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, quality, and company policies in sourcing and category decisions.

Required Skills

• Category management
• Strategic sourcing
• Vendor negotiation
• Contract management
• Demand forecasting
• Pricing and margin analysis
• Inventory optimization
• Data analytics (Excel/BI tools)
• Food & beverage product knowledge
• Cross-functional collaboration