Senior Category Growth Lead - Fresh Produce

Socket.dev; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 104,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical plans

401(k) with company match

Employee stock purchase plan

Paid time off

Job summary

C.H. Robinson is seeking a strategic Senior Manager Category Management to lead category strategy, supply planning, and growth initiatives within our Robinson Fresh business. You will influence cross-functional teams, manage key grower and customer relationships, and optimize category performance.

This role requires leadership, strong negotiation, and deep market expertise. You will develop divisional strategies, coach teams, and drive profitability while navigating a fast-paced environment and

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Minimum 7 years buying and selling experience in fresh produce.
• Minimum 3 years leading and managing teams.
• Ability to travel up to 50% domestically and internationally.

Responsibilities

• Oversees day-to-day category management, including communication, execution, quotes, contracts, service levels, and reporting.
• Leads innovation in packaging, varietals, and supply chain efficiencies within the category.
• Advises on transactional, promotional, and contract pricing decisions.
• Manages strategic grower relationships and pipeline for new grower/shipper prospects.
• Actively participates as the category expert in major customer meetings.
• Educates internal teams on varieties, seasonality, regions, farming practices, yields, costs, and compliance.
• Develops divisional strategy and supply plan to meet customer needs and profitability.
• Coaches and develops staff, outlines roles, and provides real-time feedback and mentoring.
• Supports diversity, inclusion, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Negotiation

Strategy

Category management

Communication

Analytical thinking

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Bachelor’s Degree

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Excel

Job description

C.H. Robinson is seeking a strategic Senior Manager Category Management to lead category strategy, supply planning, and growth initiatives within our Robinson Fresh business. You will influence cross-functional teams, manage key grower and customer relationships, and optimize category performance.

This role requires leadership, strong negotiation, and deep market expertise. You will develop divisional strategies, coach teams, and drive profitability while navigating a fast-paced environment and