National Category Specialist

A Hiring Company; Ontario; Hybrid; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A food distribution leader in Ontario is seeking a National Category Specialist to develop category strategies and achieve KPIs related to growth and inventory. This role requires teamwork, effective communication, and negotiation skills. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree and at least 3 years of category management experience. The position is hybrid, requiring some travel.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of experience in procurement or category management within food service or manufacturing industries.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute long-term growth strategies for the product category.
• Research and analyze market data to support demand planning.
• Support sustainable sourcing with innovative product portfolios.
• Manage overall category performance and inventory control.
• Negotiate with suppliers to foster partnerships.

Skills

Teamwork

Effective communication

Problem-solving

Business acumen

Analytical skills

Negotiation skills

Proficiency in MS Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business administration or related field

Job description

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Gold Star Foods is the leading food distributor to K-12 schools in the United States. We are a company devoted to providing our customers with excellent customer service. We know that our employees make the difference! Join our team and experience a workplace where you enjoy your daily work!

Position Overview

The National Category Specialist (Frozen), under the direction of the Sourcing Manager, is responsible for achieving KPIs related to earnings, category growth, margin, and inventory health. The role involves developing and strengthening Category Buyers and supporting overall business operations nationwide. The specialist will develop category strategies tailored for multiple regions, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, and collaborate with internal departments and external suppliers. Frequent business travel is expected.

Principal Responsibilities

• Plan and execute long-term growth strategies for the product category.
• Research and analyze market data to support demand planning.
• Support sustainable sourcing with innovative product portfolios.
• Align product assortment with GS Foods' category strategy.
• Assist with bids, vendor promotions, and keep sales teams informed.
• Achieve targets related to margin, sales, budget, inventory, and product quality.
• Manage overall category performance and inventory control, meeting all targets.
• Analyze financial results and conduct variance analyses to meet goals.
• Source and procure products for bids and sustainable sourcing.
• Build relationships with suppliers and develop new business opportunities.
• Negotiate with existing and new suppliers to foster partnerships.
• Support buying strategies, vendor relations, and sourcing initiatives.
• Collaborate with internal teams to support business operations.
• Assist with category inquiries, product research, and vendor communication.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Required Skills

• Ability to work in a team, support organizational change, and support change management.
• Effective communication skills across all organizational levels and with external stakeholders.
• Strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
• Self-motivated with strong business acumen.
• Analytical skills to interpret data for business needs.
• Proven negotiation skills and sound judgment.
• Proficiency in MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to travel for industry events as needed.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration or related field.
• At least 3 years of experience in procurement or category management within food service or manufacturing industries.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

Standard office environment. Physical demands include sitting, standing, walking, reaching, and lifting up to 25 pounds. Reasonable accommodations available for individuals with disabilities.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, considering all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected factors.

Work hours: Monday - Friday, 9 am to 5 pm (Hybrid).

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