Job Description

Job Title: Category Strategy Manager – Distribution Centers OverviewThe Category Strategy Manager – Distribution Centers is responsible for developing and executing category strategies across multiple Distribution Centers (DCs), ensuring alignment with US Foods' overall objectives. This role drives profitable sales growth, optimizes SKU assortments, and collaborates with cross-functional teams, including culinary, sales, and FSQA, to deliver consistent, high-quality product offerings. Key Responsibilities Develop Implementation Plans Develop and execute customized implementation plans for category strategies across multiple DCs.Align Area-level strategies with national objectives while tailoring to local needs. Product Assortment & Analysis Review product assortments within assigned Areas, analyzing product penetration and identifying slow-moving or dead SKUs.Identify opportunities to drive profitable sales growth.Request exception SKUs, finalize Area assortments, determine Discontinued Warehouse Orders (DWOs), and create product conversion plans. SKU & Assortment Optimization Ensure product assortments align with category strategy while reducing SKU duplication and optimizing inventory.Meet local customer needs while maintaining consistency with national strategies. Market Intelligence & Trend Analysis Lead local market data gathering and analysis for multiple DCs.Track competitor activities, market trends, and new product opportunities to keep US Foods ahead of industry developments. New Product Introduction & Training Facilitate seamless integration of new products, coordinating with the Director of Strategic Sourcing, specialists, and sales staff.Ensure all product and brand messaging aligns with US Foods strategy and objectives. Collaboration with Culinary Team Coordinate planning meetings with culinary teams to identify opportunities within accounts and categories.Collaborate to fine-tune category strategies and product selections for local and national alignment. FSQA (Food Safety & Quality Assurance) SupportSupport FSQA inquiries and follow proper procedures to maintain alignment with regional teams on vendor issues.Serve as liaison between FSQA and sales teams to ensure compliance with food safety and quality standards. Bid & Account SupportSupport major Area-specific account bids with actionable data and analysis.Coordinate new customer onboarding and ensure sales staff are updated on category strategy developments. Sales & Team CoordinationKeep sales staff informed of category strategy changes, new products, and customer needs.Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent execution of category strategies. Qualifications Education:-Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field preferred. Experience 3+ years in category management, merchandising, or sales operations within food service or distribution.Proven track record in driving profitable sales growth through strategic planning.Experience with SKU management, assortment optimization, and new product introductions. Skills & Competencies Strong analytical skills to interpret market trends, sales data, and customer feedback.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for cross-functional collaboration.Ability to lead initiatives affecting multiple teams and departments.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and familiarity with category management or inventory systems.Strong organizational and time management skills to handle multiple priorities.Proactive approach to identifying growth opportunities. Preferred Additional Skills Experience with food safety and quality assurance in distribution environments.Familiarity with FSQA guidelines and regulations.Prior experience in Distribution Centers or similar supply chain operations.

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