Assistant Category Manager

Assistant Category Manager Location HQ 3500 S Clark Street Arlington, VA 22202 USA Employment Type Full-Time Experience Level Experienced Employment Area Purchasing Reference number 629523 Target Start Date 01/19/2026 Summary Lidl US is searching for the next Assistant Category Manager to join our Buying team! The Assistant Category Manager contributes to the development of Lidl’s purchasing strategy through detailed market analysis, sourcing new suppliers, and assisting with contract negotiations. The Assistant Category Manager will partner with and shadow Senior Category Managers in cross-departmental meetings and field assignments. The Assistant Category Manager will strive to further the department’s goal of delivering high quality products, continuous product innovation, and the best value proposition for Lidl’s customers. ** Please note: This position requires reporting to our Corporate Headquarters in Arlington, VA, five days a week. ** What You’ll Do Essential Functions • Manages assigned projects, work processes, systems, and/or procedures to ensure efficient workflow and to achieve business objectives • Identify, develop, and propose opportunities for business and process improvement • Analyze various KPIs in coordination with the senior category manager on an ongoing basis • Support in national and international projects, producing business requirements, performing business system tests and technical improvements • Prepare and collect relevant information to process purchase agreements and contracts • Support negotiations and ongoing communication/coordination with domestic & international suppliers • Prepare category analysis, quality control analysis and trend analysis • Analyze retail prices in coordination with the senior category manager, as well as the implementation and continuous monitoring of the retail landscape • Update guidelines, standard operating procedures, and instructional materials as needed • Prepare and assist in tastings and quality assurance for the negotiated items • Commit to and complete individual development plan on schedule What You’ll Need Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities • Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines • Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Excellent organizational and time management skills • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills • Ability to work independently with excellent follow-through skills • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software Required Education, Certifications/ Licenses, Related Experience • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Retail, or related field • 2-4 years of experience in a related field • In lieu of degree, 5+ years of experience in related field will meet the education and related experience requirements listed above Preferred Education, Certifications/ Licenses, Related Experience • 1-6 months of purchasing experience in a grocery retail setting 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 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.