Category Manager (C-Store, Retail)

Elan Partners; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading retail consulting firm is seeking a Category Manager to enhance category management and marketing in a convenience retail environment. This role involves developing strategic marketing plans, leading promotional strategies, and partnering with vendors and internal teams. Ideal candidates will have over 2 years of experience in category management within C-stores, strong negotiation skills, and a data-driven approach to decision-making. This position is based in Dallas, Texas and does not offer sponsorship.

Qualifications

• 2+ years experience in C-store and/or retail category management.
• Strong understanding of promotions and inventory management.
• Proven negotiation skills with a data-driven approach.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic marketing and category plans.
• Lead promotional strategy and cross-functional execution.
• Analyze market data to evaluate performance and growth opportunities.

Skills

C-store experience

Negotiation skills

Data-driven decision-making

Financial acumen

Technology utilization

Job description

Title: Category Manager (C-Store, Retail)

Direct Hire Opportunity

No Sponsorship

Onsite

This role supports category management and marketing initiatives in a convenience retail environment, with a strong preference for candidates with C-store experience. The position partners with internal teams and external vendors to help execute promotions, analyze sales data, and support product assortment decisions that drive sales, margin, and customer engagement.

Requirements

• 2+ years experience in C-store and/or retail category management
• Strong understanding of promotions, procurement, contracts, consumer data, and inventory management
• Proven negotiation skills with a data-driven decision-making approach
• Combined merchandising and operations experience in a retail environment
• Financial and accounting acumen with strong attention to detail
• Comfortable using technology and sales data tools

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic marketing and category plans to drive sales, revenue, and profitability across retail and franchise locations
• Lead promotional strategy, calendar development, and cross-functional execution with operations and vendors
• Manage vendor funding, rebates, and promotional allowances, including data collection and invoicing
• Analyze internal, syndicated, and market data to evaluate performance, customer trends, and growth opportunities
• Own supplier strategy, including sourcing, evaluation, approval, and ongoing business reviews
• Negotiate national contracts, pricing, allowances, and bill-backs to maximize purchasing leverage
• Partner with operations and leadership to ensure alignment, execution, and margin optimization
• Monitor industry trends, technology, and best practices; recommend and implement new initiatives
• Oversee planogram strategy, new item introductions, and product rationalization to optimize sales and inventory
• Lead development and approval of promotional materials, loyalty initiatives, and private-label merchandise.