COP Category Manager

Responsibilities

• Drive profitable sales growth of the Center of the Plate categories, Beef, Pork, Poultry & Seafood within a region.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally (Sales, Supply Chain, Revenue Management) and across entities (Market, Corporate, Specialty).
• Act as category expert providing training, product information, regulatory guidance, and market cost guidance to internal and external customers.
• Align with SSMG teams to execute strategies and identify business development opportunities.
• Analyze data and market insights to understand consumer needs and wants.
• Research competitors and suggest appropriate pricing.
• Manage site specific market cost decisions on a weekly basis.
• Provide field feedback on strategies, including advising on marketing materials to improve sales.
• Address the needs and concerns of key TRS/CMU/LCC customer contacts.
• Provide timely and effective communication with Sales force.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience in lieu of degree.
• 3+ years management/professional experience required (5+ years preferred).
• Significant produce industry experience, sales, merchandising and/or operations experience within a retail, wholesale or distribution environment preferred.
• Strong written & verbal communication skills required.
• Strong Excel skills preferred.
• Ability to manage & implement innovative strategies to maximize sales & gross profit potential while driving customer loyalty & MA engagement.

• Bachelor's degree
• Sales management certification
• Marketing certification
• Operations management certification
• Food safety certification
• Supply chain certification
• Customer service certification
• Data analysis certification
• Project management certification
• Merchandising certification