Category Manager - Produce

Summary

Lidl US is searching for the next Category Manager to join our Produce Buying team! The Category Manager - Produce has full ownership of a product range within their assigned categories and is responsible for the management and development of product assortment, pricing, promotions and merchandising to achieve business objectives.
 
** This position is based out of our corporate headquarters in Arlington, VA, and follows a hybrid schedule of 3 days per week in-office. **

What You’ll Do

Essential Functions
•    Full ownership of given product range including developing category strategy, supplier management, product development, negotiation, pricing, promotions, and category management.
•    Identify and execute strategic projects within given categories to achieve business objectives.
•    Implement tactical action plans in support of strategy and aligned with company goals.
•    Analyze trends in the market with a view to create strong commercial opportunities, efficiencies, and cost savings.
•    Manage commercial data (turnover, margin, investment in price reductions, etc.) to ensure all KPI targets are achieved.
•    Conduct annual assortment analyses reviewing the market and aligning on key categorical changes while leveraging Category Management and relevant industry data.
•    Optimize merchandising space in store in collaboration with Sales and Merchandising.
•    Effectively manage projects and project timelines while working independently and collaboratively to achieve short, medium, and long-term departmental objectives.
•    Lead and coordinate purchasing projects and negotiations. Key point of contact for suppliers.
•    Regularly visit stores with team members and to evaluate standard operational procedures and merchandising tactics for improvement.
•    Ensure constant communication and collaboration with International Office, Supply Chain, Logistics, and all internal and external stakeholders to identify and resolve problems.
•    Review Leaflets and all marketing tactics weekly for accuracy and effectiveness.

What You’ll Need

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities 
•    Strong knowledge in category management, retail financial measurements, negotiations, and product development 
•    Demonstrated leadership abilities with private label product development and national brands within grocery retail.
•    Excellent verbal and written communication skills
•    Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
•    Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
•    Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
•    Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to multitask and meet deadlines
•    Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software

Required Education, Certifications/ Licenses, Related Experience 
•    Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Merchandising or related field
•    4-6 years of experience in a related field
•    In lieu of degree, 6+ years of experience in related field will meet the education and related experience requirements listed above

Physical Job Requirements 
•    Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer
•    Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times

Travel Requirements 
•    This position commutes between stores, regional offices and/or distribution centers less than 25% of the time
•    This position requires overnight domestic travel less than 25% of the time 
•    This position requires overnight international travel less than 25% of the time

What You’ll Receive

At Lidl, we know that in order for our people to do their best, they must be at their best. That’s why as a company, we offer one of the most generous benefits packages in the industry.

All our Lidl employees are eligible to receive the following benefits:

•    Medical & Prescription | Dental | Vision coverage
•    Paid Holiday & Paid Time Off (PTO) to use for sickness or vacation
•    Dedicated training plans to ensure you are set up for success
•    401k Plan (+ 5% company match)
•    Voluntary Term Life & AD&D Insurance
•    Total Well-Being Program
•    DailyPay, a voluntary benefit to offer employees access to their pay on their own schedule

Lidl US views our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) through a lens of actions that are Good for the Environment, Good for People, and Good for You.

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