Category Manager - Convenience

Summary

Lidl US is searching for the next Category Manager to join our Convenience Buying team! The Category Manager has full ownership of a product range within their assigned categories and is responsible for the management and development of product assortment, pricing, promotions and merchandising to achieve business objectives.

Please note:
This position requires reporting to our Corporate Headquarters in Arlington, VA, five days a week.

• Full ownership of given product range including developing category strategy, supplier management, product development, negotiation, pricing, promotions, and category management
• Identify and execute strategic projects within given categories to achieve business objectives
• Implement tactical action plans in support of strategy and aligned with company goals
• Analyze trends in the market with a view to create strong commercial opportunities, efficiencies, and cost savings
• Manage commercial data (turnover, margin, investment in price reductions, etc.) to ensure all KPI targets are achieved
• Conduct annual assortment analyses reviewing the market and aligning on key categorical changes while leveraging Category Management and relevant industry data
• Optimize merchandising space in store in collaboration with Sales and Merchandising
• Effectively manage projects and project timelines while working independently and collaboratively to achieve short, medium, and long-term departmental objectives
• Lead and coordinate purchasing projects and negotiations. Key point of contact for suppliers
• Regularly visit stores with team members and to evaluate standard operational procedures and merchandising tactics for improvement
• Ensure constant communication and collaboration with International Office, Supply Chain, Logistics, and all internal and external stakeholders to identify and resolve problems
• Review Leaflets and all marketing tactics weekly for accuracy and effectiveness

• Strong knowledge in category management, retail financial measurements, negotiations, and product development
• Demonstrated leadership abilities with private label product development and national brands within grocery retail
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to multitask and meet deadlines
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Merchandising or related field
• 4-6 years of experience in a related field
• In lieu of degree, 6+ years of experience in related field will meet the education and related experience requirements listed above

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times

• This position commutes between stores, regional offices and/or distribution centers less than 25% of the time
• This position requires overnight domestic travel less than 25% of the time
• This position requires overnight international travel less than 25% of the time

At Lidl, we know that in order for our people to do their best, they must be at their best. That’s why as a company, we offer one of the most generous benefits packages in the industry.

• Medical & Prescription | Dental | Vision coverage
• Paid Holiday & Paid Time Off (PTO) to use for sickness or vacation
• Dedicated training plans to ensure you are set up for success
• 401k Plan (+ 5% company match)
• Voluntary Term Life & AD&D Insurance
• Total Well-Being Program
• Daily Pay, a voluntary benefit to offer employees access to their pay on their own schedule

Lidl US views our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) through a lens of actions that are Good for the Environment, Good for People, and Good for You.