Category Director of Deli

Rosauers Supermarkets Inc.; Spokane (WA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bi-weekly pay

Health plan

401k match

Paid time off

Life insurance

Employee discounts

Scholarships

Leadership training

EAP

Job summary

Rosauers Supermarkets Inc. is seeking a strategic Category Director to lead deli category strategy, execution, and profitability across multiple stores. You will shape assortment, pricing, promotions, and placement while driving customer-focused growth.

The role requires deep retail/category expertise, strong leadership, and the ability to collaborate with Marketing, Operations, and Finance to deliver results in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or related field preferred.
• 5+ years in retail category management, merchandising, or similar.
• 3+ years in grocery retail deli operations.
• Proven track record managing product categories and growth.
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Leadership experience to build a high-performing team.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Lead category management including product selection, pricing, inventory, promotions.
• Establish and maintain vendor relationships; negotiate terms.
• Analyze market trends and consumer preferences to inform decisions.
• Manage category P&L and budgets; forecast and monitor targets.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Operations and Finance to execute plans.

Skills

Category management

Leadership

Data analysis

Vendor relations

P&L management

Cross-functional leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in business/marketing or related field

Tools

Category management software

Microsoft Office

Job description

Description

Are you a dynamic leader with a passion for the deli industry? We’re looking for a visionary Category Director to take our deli departments to the next level. In this role, you’ll be the driving force behind our deli category, combining strategic thinking with a hands‑on approach to deliver exceptional products and elevate our customer experience. If you thrive on innovation, love shaping a team, and are excited by the idea of making a tangible impact in a fast‑paced environment, then we want to hear from you! Join us and be at the heart of crafting the future of our deli offerings.

At Rosauers, we pride ourselves in providing the highest quality products, the largest selection, the cleanest stores, and the friendliest service. We proudly serve the Inland Pacific Northwest with 25 stores and over 2,100 employees throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana.

Job Summary

The Category Director at Rosauers Supermarkets, Inc. plays a pivotal role in driving the overall strategy, performance, and growth of designated product categories. This leadership position requires a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of retail, consumer trends, and category management. The Category Director will be responsible for developing and executing strategies that align with the company’s goals, optimizing product assortment, pricing, promotion, and placement to maximize sales and profitability.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Planning: Develop and implement category strategies that align with overall business objectives, focusing on growth, profitability, and customer satisfaction.
• Category Management: Lead all aspects of category management, including product selection, pricing strategy, inventory management, and promotional planning. Ensure the optimal assortment of products to meet customer needs and preferences.
• Vendor Relations: Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and vendors. Negotiate contracts, terms, and pricing to ensure competitive advantage and profitability.
• Markey Analysis: Conduct regular analysis of market trends, competitor activities, and consumer preferences. Use data-driven insights to adjust strategies and make informed decisions.
• Financial Management: Manage the category P&L, ensuring that financial goals are met or exceeded. Develop budgets and forecasts and monitor performance against targets.
• Cross-Functional Leadership: Collaborate with other departments, including Marketing, Operations, and Finance to ensure cohesive execution of category plans. Lead cross-functional teams to drive category initiatives.
• Team Development: Lead, mentor, and develop a team of department managers and other direct reports. Foster a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth.
• Innovation and Trends: Stay updated on industry trends and emerging products. Identify and implement new opportunities for category growth and differentiation.
• Customer Focus: Champion a customer‑centric approach in all category decisions. Ensure that product offerings and merchandising strategies enhance the customer shopping experience.

Benefits & Perks:

• Amazing earning potential, you'll be paid bi-weekly.
• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription)
• Retirement Plan (401k + Company Match)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, Holidays)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary, AD&D)
• Employee Discounts
• Scholarship Opportunities
• Leadership Training
• Employee Assistance Program

Position is eligible for a semi‑annual bonus from 0 - 20% of base wages considering company performance and position goals met.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field, preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in retail category management, merchandising, or a similar role.
• 3+ years of hands‑on experience in grocery retail deli operations.
• Proven record of successfully managing product categories and driving profitable growth.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make strategic decisions.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Leadership experience with the ability to inspire and develop a high‑performing team.
• Proficiency in category management software and tool, as well as Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment with a focus on results.

Working Conditions

• This role will require travel to various store locations, vendor meetings and industry events.
• Ability to work flexible hours as needed to meet business demands.
• Ability to travel within the states where we operate and adapt to a flexible schedule.
• Ability to travel coast to coast to attend grocery retail related shows, expos and/or conferences.

Rosauers Supermarkets, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to hiring a diverse team.