Category Manager

This Category Manager role is based on-site in Oakwood, GA and directly supervises a team of 4-5 buyers. Strong understanding of the buying role and food purchasing, along with demonstrated leadership ability to coach, mentor, and train others, is required. The role supports the sales team by researching products, new suppliers, pricing, negotiating deals, and providing solutions.

About the Company

Performance Foodservice, PFG’s broadline distributor, maintains a unique relationship with a variety of local customers, including independent restaurants and hotels, healthcare facilities, schools, and quick-service eateries. A team of sales reps, chefs, consultants, and other experts builds close relationships with customers — providing advice on improving operations, menu development, product selection, and operational strategies. The Performance team delivers delicious food but also goes above and beyond to help independent restaurant owners achieve their dreams.

Responsibilities

• Ongoing evaluation of product lines, programs, and pricing to identify opportunities for changes or to maximize supplier relationships.
• Lead the purchasing team/buyers by providing direction, support, and guidance in areas such as service level, out-of-stocks, expiration issues, aged inventory, EOQ, days on hand, and best buying practices.
• Conduct quarterly supplier meetings to discuss opportunities, new items, changes to current assortment, performance metrics, programs, and gaps.
• Act as sales support for a 150+ sales team by researching products, new suppliers, pricing, and negotiating deals to stay competitive.
• Take ownership of aged inventory and find solutions in a timely manner.
• Work with sales, finance, and marketing to identify key opportunities for sales growth.
• Interface with customers, vendors, management, warehouse personnel, and cross-functional teams including Accounting, Sales, Marketing, Customer Service, Transportation, Information Services, Inbound Freight Traffic, and Purchasing leadership.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma/GED or equivalent experience.
• 4-6 years of foodservice distribution and purchasing experience.
• Strong understanding of the vendor community and experience conducting business reviews with vendors.
• Foodservice or food distribution background highly preferred.

Benefits

• Day 1 Health & Wellness Benefits.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• 401K Employer Matching.
• Education Assistance.
• Paid Time Off.