Produce Category Manager

We are currently hiring for a Produce Category Manager.  If you’re highly motivated and are ready for an exciting career that will shape the future of the foodservice industry, we want to hear from you.

Position Summary:

The Produce Category Manager will be responsible for our Fresh Produce category across all of our companies. The successful candidate will display ultimate ownership for this category through the execution and implementation of strategies which drive alignment amongst key stakeholders and customers.  This will include driving category sales, margin management, vendor relationships, and product mix/range management, pricing strategy, cost negotiations, data analysis, promotional planning, ordering coordination, supply continuity, internal coordination with sales and our Central Office teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Create and execute a comprehensive strategy for the produce category, including planning, pricing strategy, promotional planning, and vendor management.
• Develop forecasting and achieve category sales goals, profit dollars and growth objectives.
• Analyze produce category data including sales performance, market trends, and customer feedback to identify opportunities for growth and improvement.
• Serve as the Produce Subject Matter Expert (SME), staying abreast of category trends, commodity markets information, line product performance, competitor’s knowledge and local preferences (traveling as needed).
• Direct involvement and management of new product listing decisions and promotional initiatives.
• Lead cross-functional teams to execute category initiatives, including new product launches, promotional campaigns and initiatives.
• Manage selected supplier and vendor relationships; interview and negotiate with growers, brokers and distributors.
• Manage vendor relationships, including negotiation of pricing, terms, and contracts, to ensure the best possible assortment and pricing for customers.
• Manage assortment (including item setup & maintenance), follow and help shape pricing strategy, and lead shelf allocation process.
• Develop, implement and monitor seasonal product assortment.
• Support development of marketing strategies for applicable categories.
• Work collaboratively with all departments across the organization.
• Educate team members on existing and new products.
• Participate in special projects as assigned.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and quality standards, and work with relevant stakeholders to address issues or concerns in a timely manner.
• Drive continuous improvement to support the growth of the produce category, through data-driven analysis, and collaboration with internal teams.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, agriculture or related field preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in one of the following areas: replenishment buying/procurement, merchandising, category management, Foodservice operations and/or brand management. Including vendor negotiations, Market price setting, margin management and promotional planning.
• Subject Matter Expert (SME): Fresh Produce.
• Deep understanding of produce industry dynamics, including supply chain management, sourcing practices, and quality standards.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute successful category strategies that drive sales and profitability.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills,
• Must be able to perform the essential functions of this position independently and with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities to drive results within a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and draw insights.
• Strong organization skills, and the ability to multi-task and manage competing priorities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to establish and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Excellent attention to detail
• Ability to travel independently

Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package
• Pension and RRSP plans
• Profit Sharing Program
• Comprehensive Flexible Benefits
• Paid Personal Days and Your Birthday!
• Annual Health & Wellness Benefit
• Family oriented culture

Be part of the Legacy!

All employees of Flanagan Foodservice must demonstrate adherence to all HACCP and Food Handling practices as well as all Company’s policies and procedures.

Flanagan Foodservice Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and has an accommodation process in place to provide accommodations for applicants with disabilities. If you require a specific accommodation because of a disability or a medical need, please let us know by submitting your request to accessibility@flanagan.ca so that arrangements can be made for the appropriate accommodations.