Strategic Category Leader, Food Distribution

The Judge Group, INC.; Gainesville (GA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

Excellent matching 401(k)

Wellness programs

Additional employee perks

Job summary

The Judge Group, INC. seeks a strategic Category Manager in Gainesville, GA to lead a 4–5 buyer team, shape purchasing strategy, and strengthen supplier partnerships within a large food distribution network.

You will analyze product lines, guide pricing and service levels, drive margin performance, and collaborate with Sales, Finance and Marketing to identify growth opportunities. This role offers Fortune 500–level benefits and clear career progression.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of food purchasing experience.
• Experience in wholesale food, retail food, or foodservice distribution.
• Leadership experience directing buyers.
• Strong analytical, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Experience with cheese/dairy or frozen categories preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of 4–5 Buyers.
• Evaluate product lines, programs, and pricing to identify improvement opportunities.
• Guide buyers on service levels, out-of-stocks, aged inventory, EOQ, and best practices.
• Run quarterly supplier meetings to review performance and assortment changes.
• Support a 150+ member sales team with product research, pricing, and deal negotiation.
• Own aged inventory and drive timely solutions.
• Partner with Sales, Finance, and Marketing to identify growth opportunities.
• Perform additional duties to best serve the company.

Skills

Food purchasing

Leadership

Supplier management

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Associate or Bachelor’s preferred

Job description

The Judge Group, INC. seeks a strategic Category Manager in Gainesville, GA to lead a 4–5 buyer team, shape purchasing strategy, and strengthen supplier partnerships within a large food distribution network.

You will analyze product lines, guide pricing and service levels, drive margin performance, and collaborate with Sales, Finance and Marketing to identify growth opportunities. This role offers Fortune 500–level benefits and clear career progression.