Food Service Category Manager

**Indeed users: if applying via mobile device using the "Apply Now" feature, you will still need to visit our career page to complete your application**

Cooper-Booth Wholesale Company (CBW), established in 1865, is a family-owned, full-service distributor serving retailers in the Mid-Atlantic region. With a legacy of growth through acquisitions and a commitment to excellent service and value, CBW is now one of the Top 10 leading convenience store wholesalers in the U.S.

Position Summary

The Category Manager drives sales growth and profitability across assigned product categories. This role oversees category planning, vendor negotiations, and strategic purchasing, collaborating closely with Sales, Marketing, and internal Buyers to optimize assortment, pricing, and promotional strategies.

Key Responsibilities

Category Management & Strategy

• Maintain optimal SKU count aligned with category objectives.
• Develop and execute business plans to drive sales, margin, and inventory ROI.
• Monitor category trends and competitor activity to inform assortment decisions.
• Become the subject matter expert on assigned categories.

Vendor Management

• Build and maintain strong vendor partnerships to achieve best cost of goods.
• Negotiate pricing, programs, and marketing funds to support promotions.
• Collaborate with vendors on innovation, market insights, and supply chain improvements.

Pricing & Profitability

• Ensure accurate pricing and margin integrity across SKUs.
• Identify margin growth opportunities through mix, pricing, and vendor programs.

Sales & Marketing Collaboration

• Partner with Sales to identify customer growth opportunities.
• Provide regular updates on product launches, promotions, and category plans.
• Support planogram development and advertising initiatives.

Procurement

• Directly responsible for purchasing and managing replenishment for assigned categories.
• Ensure optimal order quantities, lead times, and inventory turnover based on sales trends and forecasts.
• Monitor vendor fill rates and manage supplier performance.
• Execute best procurement practices to maintain stock availability while minimizing excess inventory.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure timely product delivery and accurate system data.

Analysis & Reporting

• Evaluate product performance and recommend SKU rationalization.
• Use data to identify slow movers, high performers, and new opportunities.
• Visit retailers and trade shows to stay current on trends and competitive landscape.

Qualifications

Required Skills

• Strong business acumen and analytical thinking.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.
• Self-motivated and detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word); experience with ERP or category management software a plus.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or related field preferred.
• 1–3 years in purchasing, category management, or retail merchandising; or equivalent experience.

Benefits

• Complete medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and accident insurances starting the first of the month following 60-days of employment.
• 401(k) after 6 months with 2% employer match.
• Paid Time Off (PTO); starting at 80 hours your first year.
• Paid Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and other mental health benefits are available!
• Ability to purchase products from the warehouse at wholesale price.