Category Manager

The role of Category Manager is a vital position within the restaurant solutions and supply chain industry, focusing on the development and execution of sourcing strategies for kitchen equipment and related restaurant solutions. As a Category Manager, you will be responsible for driving category performance by managing supplier relationships, supporting new restaurant openings, remodels, and ongoing operations. This full-time role offers the opportunity to work for a leading organization with a strong company culture, comprehensive benefits, and abundant avenues for professional growth.

As a Category Manager, you will play an influential role in shaping sourcing strategies, optimizing supplier performance, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality products and services at the best sustainable value. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—including New Store Development, Remodeling, Research & Development, Operations, and franchise stakeholders to advance business objectives and ensure the successful rollout of category initiatives.

By leveraging your expertise in procurement, contract negotiation, and strategic sourcing, you will contribute to the organization’s success in delivering innovative solutions and maintaining a competitive edge in the industry.

• Lead category management activities for kitchen equipment and restaurant solutions.
• Develop and maintain strategic supplier relationships focusing on quality, service, cost management, and risk mitigation.
• Drive continuous improvement and ensure uninterrupted supply through effective supplier management.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and franchise partners to support business initiatives.

• Oversee supplier management, including performance monitoring and continuous improvement efforts.
• Develop and implement sourcing strategies that balance cost, quality, and service.
• Lead contract negotiations and manage contract life cycles, including renewals and supplier agreements.
• Conduct RFI, RFQ, and RFP processes, analyze proposals, and make informed sourcing recommendations.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to support new restaurant openings, remodels, and ongoing operations.
• Identify opportunities for new programs and solutions to enhance customer and member experiences.
• Analyze market trends, supplier capabilities, and cost drivers to inform sourcing decisions.
• Evaluate category performance to identify opportunities for savings, innovation, and risk mitigation.
• Support internal compliance, supplier onboarding, pricing maintenance, and audit requirements.

• Comprehensive benefits package offered to full-time employees.
• Opportunities for long-term growth and advancement within the organization.
• Access to professional development resources and a supportive company culture.

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in category management, strategic sourcing, procurement, or supply chain management.
• Demonstrated experience in supplier relationship management, contract negotiation, and sourcing initiatives.
• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Construction Management, or related field preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel and PowerPoint.
• Familiarity with SAP and/or Smartsheet is advantageous.
• Strong communication, relationship-building, and collaboration skills.
• Excellent organizational and project management abilities, with capacity to manage multiple priorities.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and results-oriented approach.
• Ability to navigate complex business requirements across multiple categories.

• Experience in purchasing cooperatives, food service distribution, franchise systems, or the restaurant/food service industry.
• Strategic thinker with a track record of implementing effective sourcing and category management solutions.
• Excellent analytical and negotiation skills.
• Thrives in a collaborative, cross-functional environment.
• Adaptable and eager to contribute to organizational growth and innovation.

• This position offers the potential to work remotely, providing flexibility and work-life balance for full-time professionals.
• Be part of a leading company committed to delivering the highest standards in restaurant solutions and supply chain excellence.