Category Manager Assistant

Company: Military Deli and Bakery Services
Location: Aurora
Posted on: May 28, 2023

Job Description:

Category Manager Assistant
Job Details
Level
Experienced
Job Location
Aurora Office - Aurora, IL
Salary Range
$45,000.00 - $60,000.00 Salary/year
Description
Location: Western Suburbs of Chicago (Note: position will require with 50%-60% overnight travel)
The primary responsibility of the Assistant Category Manager is to deliver in-store specialized training and expertise in the introduction of new programs primarily in the Deli and Prepared Foods departments in stores across the country. These training and support functions will require the ability to travel extensively requiring two or three overnight stays most weeks. This position will support store operations in our largest stores and provide support to build success for new programs, sales and marketing programs. The position is also involved in merchandising plans and food safety standards.
This is a full-time salaried position. A relocation program to move to the Chicagoland area will be provided and we are open to candidates currently located in all regions within MDBS.
The Assistant Category Manager role is to build knowledge and skills in the company's store managers and associates as they launch new programs in the stores. This effort is expected to provide a significant contribution to the sales and profits of the company.
Job Responsibilities and Accountabilities:
Category Management and Merchandising Planning

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  Under the direction of the Director of Category Management, ensures effective execution of new in-store programs by supporting implementation and training. Works to deliver leadership, expertise and direction to Deli/Bakery managers and store staff during introductions of new programs, to problem-solve issues that arise during these introductions and develop solutions.
  
  
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  In conjunction with Director of Category Management, assists in the development of elements of the company's sales growth and merchandising plans for Deli, Prepared Foods, and Bakery programs. Works closely with Director of Category Manager to achieve objectives and successfully execute new initiatives.
  
  
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  Provides as needed support to the Director related to planning. Assists in gathering appropriate information, record keeping and filing related to planning process.
  
  
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  Assist Director of Category Management in the development of Job Aids and other support materials for new items and new programs. Also refresh the current Job Aids into new format for consistency of presentation and minor program enhancements.
  
  
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  During store visits, review the in-store assortment and merchandising displays and make recommendations to the Director of Category Management for potential improvements. As needed, to assist the Director of Category Management in making appropriate recommendations for changes and improvements to programs.
  
  
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  While traveling, conducts store surveys of competitive commercial supermarkets and communicates findings back to the Director. Provide the Director with ongoing analysis of trends seen in competitive supermarkets. Assists the Director with proposals for the development of new initiatives or programs.
  
  
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  Monitors all the monthly report formats to identify both highly successful operations and operations that are underperforming.
  
  
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  Helps support promotional planning systems and communicates that information to the appropriate business partners.
  
  
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  Provides vendor reviews as necessary such as reviewing products at a store via product testing.
  
  
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  Monitors progress and ensures product, program and other expected outcomes are achieved. Work closely with other Region staff to accomplish account objectives and initiatives. Provide training and operational support to ensure successful implementation of department programs.
  
  
  Results Driven
  
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    Analyze company and vendor data to identify issues and opportunities. Provide overviews to Director of CM.
    
    
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    Identifies needs and opportunities to preserve existing business and develop new business with assigned vendors.
    
    
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    Shares best practices across company to best position company growth.
    
    
    Manage Relationships
    
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      Develops and sustains strong working relationships with Deli/Bakery Managers and staff in the stores.
      
      
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      Consults with managers to seek out and provide department-specific operational expertise where needed.
      
      
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      Works collaboratively with the Region leadership to ensure department specific product and program offerings are in place and supported.
      
      
      Job Requirements:
      
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        2 -year degree or equivalent experience, 2-4 years retail and / or supply chain merchandising experience with solid understanding of operations, systems, category management and merchandising.
        
        
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        Proficient in MDBS internal systems.
        
        
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        Ability to handle questions and inquiries from in-store staff.
        
        
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        Ability to prioritize and manage against multiple competing priorities.
        
        
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        Proficient problem-solving skills.
        
        
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        Strong planning and personal organizational skills are required.
        
        
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        Must be proficient in basic Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Power Point, etc.) and have the ability to use them to organize information.
        
        
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        Excellent written and verbal communication skills as well as interpersonal skills to develop and maintain effective business relationships.
        
        
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        Must have a strong attention to detail. Accurate input of information into multiple systems is critical to this position.
        
        
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        MDBS considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran, or disability status in accordance with federal law. In addition, MDBS complies with applicable state and local laws prohibiting discrimination in employment in every jurisdiction in which it maintains facilities. The above description identifies the essential job functions and skills needed by the person or persons assigned to this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. The information contained herein is subject to change at the company's discretion.
        EOE M/F/D/VEVRAA FEDERAL CONTRACTOR www.militarydeli.com
        
        
        

Keywords: Military Deli and Bakery Services, Aurora , Category Manager Assistant, Hospitality & Tourism , Aurora, Colorado