Category Manager

Category Manager –
Associated Wholesale Grocers

Location:

5000 Kansas Avenue, Kansas City, KS – Hybrid Schedule Available

Department:
Category Management

The Category Manager is responsible for the profitable sales growth of assigned category(s) for AWG and our Members. They collaborate with others across the AWG organization and supplier partners to achieve shared objectives. The Category Manager makes all item‑level decisions within their category(s), including product mix, costing, promotional plans, shelf placement, procurement and item‑derived income to achieve category initiatives. They also ensure programs are trend‑aligned, deliver high‑quality products, and are fully supported while achieving the best cost of goods.

• Can manage one or more Category Assistants.

• Develop and implement key category initiatives and strategies.
• Develop and maintain complete product and category knowledge.
• Develop sales growth programs that allow market flexibility.
• Manage the AWG Brands assortment including product development to drive category sales and achieve targeted profitability.
• Manage vendor funding to maximize sales and profitability.
• Conduct regular category reviews to maximize assortment and set strategies.
• Manage event schedules and promotions.
• Oversee timely and accurate file maintenance.
• Manage all vendor programs, allowances, performance funds, incentive funds, marketing funds, direct plant ship options, and maintain efficiency incentives.
• Communicate and interact with cross‑functional departments (e.g., Inventory Management, Center Store, Accounting, AWG Brands, and divisional sales teams).
• Work with Corporate Promotions Planner and Sales Coordinators to implement sales programs, communicating categories and consumer trends.
• Visit key markets regularly to stay informed of competitiveness and market trends.
• Create joint business plans and conduct quarterly business reviews.

• Any combination of education, training, and experience providing the following knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• College degree preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of Consumer Products Goods or related industry experience.
• Working knowledge of sourcing, procurement, supply chain management, retail/wholesale/warehouse operations, category business planning, marketing, consumer research, and financial management.
• Minimal travel required: primary travel is to AWG member retail locations and distribution centers, vendor partner locations, and trade‑related events and shows.
• Intermediate knowledge of business applications (e.g., Microsoft Office and G Suites).

• Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Account
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account
• Paid Vacation, Holiday, and Sick Time
• 401(k) with 4% match and additional contributions
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Basic & Supplemental Life and AD&D
• Employee Assistance Program
• Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability
• Wellness Program
• Yearly Holiday Bonus

Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc. (AWG) is the nation’s largest cooperative food wholesaler to independently owned supermarkets, serving 1,100 member companies and more than 3,400 locations throughout 33 states from 9 wholesale divisions. Consolidated sales for AWG in 2024 exceeded $12.0 billion.