What are the responsibilities and job description for the Buyer/Category Manager position at Mitchell Grocery Corporation?
Mitchell Grocery Corporation, in cooperation with 175 independent supermarkets in 5 Southeastern states, operates as a regional chain with over $1 Billion in annual retail sales. Mitchell Grocery owns and operates 45 of the 175 supermarkets. Headquartered in Albertville, AL, the company has been privately held by the Mitchell Family for 81 years, since 1945. Job Description: Buyer/Category Manager Position Summary: Position is responsible for the planning, procurement and coordination of the Grocery/Center Store products class. Essential duties and responsibilities to include but are not limited to the following: Assist in the creation of business plans that meet or exceed company goals for sales, profit, service level, inventory turns and product quality Assist in the creation of retail merchandising plans that deliver or exceed independent retailers’ expectations in terms of sales and profits Be responsible for delivering financial results to meet or exceed budget goals Effectively communicate with all team members, retail customers, vendors and brokers to ensure all company goals are met or exceeded on a daily basis Ensure all areas of logistics are managed and communicated to meet or exceed company expectations Perform and oversee all areas of procurement for all center store products to include daily turn business, ad products and seasonal products Ensure all inventory is managed to produce maximum sales and profits for the company and retailers Establish a high level of business relationships with all manufacturers, brokers and vendors to ensure we deliver the best quality products at the best possible price to our retailers each and every day Prepare for and attend department meetings to review and plan business goals Be constantly aware of the market as it pertains to wholesale and retail competition Position Requirements: Associates or Bachelor’s Degree in related field (preferred), along with a minimum of 5 years related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience Previous buying and procurement experience with emphasis in center store products Strong verbal and written communication skills Strong organizational and mathematical skills Ability to work with management and other team members Excellent interpersonal skills