Manager I Category Fresh

As an Assistant Category Manager you will play a key role in supporting Stop & Shops daily selling activities with a strong consumer-focused approach managing Category Merchandising and Pricing responsibilities. You will be accountable for managing vendor relationships and negotiations with minimal supervision from the Category Manager (CM).Youllalso provide leadership support to the Category team and work closely with the CM to determineappropriate dutiesand responsibilities. You will oversee processes related to shelf presentation assortment decisions cost negotiations promotional planning and product/program development for assigned categories. Collaboration with teams across Shelf Merchandising Banner Merchandising Pricing and Replenishment is essential to deliver a unified and effective Category plan aligned with each Banners strategy and Integrated Business Plan. Additionallyyoullwork with Retail Operations Marketing Merchandising Governance & Planning (MGP) our Brands and Master Data Management to ensure organizational alignment andoptimalportfolio performance.

What we ask of you:

• Leverage prior merchandising or category merchandising experience to support the implementation of strategies and initiatives across Category Merchandising and Pricing with the Category Manager.

• Lead and mentor a team of analysts and administrators providing direction and leadership on day-to-day activities.

• Assistin crafting a comprehensive Category strategy that meets consumer needs and drives Category goals while supporting the Banner Integrated Business Plan.

• Collaborate across departments to meet key performance metrics including Sales Movement Market Share Net Contribution Profit and Shrink. These metrics may evolve depending on business priorities.

• Conduct thorough analysis of categories to support the achievement of Banner strategies.

• Lead negotiations with vendors and collaborate with the team to secureadvantageousprograms that drive cost reductions whilemaintainingan optimalitem mix.

• Work with the Category Manager to negotiate the lowest costs across all elements such aslogistics distribution shrink and reclaim including swell allowances.

• Manage vendor allowances in partnership with the Category Manager to ensure targets are met.

• Maximize the potential of Our Brand items to build consumer loyalty and enhance profitability for both the Category and Delhaize America (DA).

• Collaborate with Fresh Foods Buyers to meet service and inventory levelobjectives.

• Support the forecasting of ad items and seasonal projections.

• Develop projections for Sales Margin Shrink and Labor for each new program.

• Maintain and update the order guide.

• Provide guidance and motivation to peers while being an effective advocate for change and growth within the team.

• Foster a continuousimprovementculture within the team and department.

• Serve on key teams and committees as needed.

• Oversee the development and growth of analysts Buyers and Pricing Analyst team members.

What you bring to the table:

• 6-8 years of combined experience in retail merchandising category management pricinglogistics supply chain procurementanddistribution.

• Knowledge of relevant practice areas including Fresh or Center Store categories.

• Strong understanding of company business and industry practices.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word Excel PowerPoint etc.).

• Travel required (typically 8-12%).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience managing vendor relationships including brokers and third-party consultants.

• Proven negotiation experience.

What we bring to the table:

• Culture committed to celebrating diverse backgrounds and experiences

• Comprehensive benefits

• Opportunities for professional development and career growth

• Associate discounts

• Team of associates dedicated to serving our local customers and supporting our communities

• Flexible hybrid work environment with three days a week at our Quincy Corporate office and the remaining days working remotely

If you are passionate about customer service thrive in a dynamic environment and are committed to making a difference we invite you to apply.

The salary range for position is $106480- $159720 and will becommensuratewith background experience as well as internal equity.