Category Merchandiser - Deli & Bakery

Category Merchandiser – Deli & Bakery

Strong analytical and quantitative skills, including comfort working with complex financial data and experience in category planning.
Deep understanding of financial methodologies to assess costs, build annual business plans, and oversee key metrics such as sales, volume, inventory, and cost.
A systems-oriented mindset with a willingness to learn new tools; self-motivated and detail-driven.
Strong communication skills, verbal, written, and presentation, as well as the ability to negotiate effectively.
Excellent planning and time management abilities.
A high tolerance for ambiguity and fast-paced environments, with the ability to adapt quickly.
The ability to operate effectively in both tactical and strategic roles.
Proven success working cross-functionally and building strong internal and external partnerships.
Experience managing and resolving issues with vendors, brokers, and internal stakeholders.
2-5 years of relevant experience in retail/supermarkets, wholesale, and/or CPG industries.
Willingness and ability to travel frequently, approximately 90% field-based and 10% in-office, including regular travel to stores throughout Wisconsin and potentially Northern Illinois, as well as attending a minimum of two food shows per year.

Applying analytical and quantitative insights to support annual category strategy development, including support for planning, competitive intelligence, sales data, and syndicated data to identify actionable trends and opportunities to drive sales and margin.
Overseeing the execution of all vendor programs, including allowances, performance funds, incentives, forward buys, and direct-ship plans, while maintaining efficiency incentives as a competitive advantage.
Collaborating with the Commercial team and Promotional Planning Managers across regions to implement sales programs and support local events.
Leading the execution of category tactics and deliverables such as deal submissions, demand planning, new item introductions, and key selling events.
Performing SKU rationalization within categories and working with suppliers to maintain the right product assortment while monitoring commodity market risk.
Managing Trade Fund planning and execution (passed and retained), flyer income, and weekly tracking of trade funds, incentives, forward buys, truckload opportunities, and program income.
Acting as the primary escalation point for vendor/broker planning and day-to-day tactics, including deal submissions, approvals, and collaboration with Manufacturing, Buying, and Transportation to resolve out-of-stock issues.
Participating in or leading cross-functional planning efforts in support of corporate and regional growth strategies.