Category Manager

Category Manager

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum of 3 years of fresh produce experience (within a category listed above preferred)
• Ability to travel up to 25% (domestically and internationally)

Responsibilities

• Oversees the day-to-day management of the category, to include communication, execution, quoting and contract proposals, service level management (of customers and suppliers), and reporting
• Promotes innovation within the category, differentiating our offering through packaging, varietals, supply chain efficiencies, etc., to remain relevant and competitive in the marketplace
• Responsible for transactional, promotional, and contract pricing decisions
• Manages and leverages grower relationships through the grower review process to continually improve performance
• Responsible for actively manage a pipeline of new grower/shipper prospects to onboard and customer targets identified in partnership with sales counterparts
• Participates in customer meetings when needed as an SME for the category
• Consistently and effectively educates internal teams about all aspects of the category: varieties, seasonality, growing regions, farming practices and influence yields, quality, supply chain cost components, regulatory compliance, etc.
• Develop a strong supply plan with the right suppliers and strategy to meet the requirements of the customer base and enable growth and profitability in the category
• May eventually provide daily coaching and performance management. Outlines employee role accountabilities and expectations; manages performance to drive the right behaviors and improve results and provides useful real-time coaching, development activities and stretch assignments; supports employees with problem resolution
• Other duties or responsibilities as assigned according to the team and/or country-specific requirements

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual in Spanish
• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university
• Depth of knowledge in the grower/shipper side of the produce industry
• Previous supervisory experience
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite of programs
• Solid financial acumen
• Strong team player who thrives in a collaborative environment
• Excellent relationship-building skills with customers, growers, and internal teams
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experienced in negotiation, pricing strategy, and building programs
• Recognized as a leader on prior teams
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; ability to make data-driven decisions
• Strategic and innovative mindset, able to develop and drive initiatives from conception to implementation
• Ability to work under pressure and in a fast-paced environment, sometimes out of normal business hours
• Attention to detail with high standards for work; a customer service mindset
• Values a diverse and inclusive work environment