US Foods Holding Corp

Category Operations Manager - Area

US Foods Holding Corp • $70K — $115K *
Austin, TX 78745In-Person
Food & Beverages
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, Food Service Management, or related field.
  • 7+ years of Category Management experience required.
  • Experience in foodservice distribution, manufacturing, or retail preferred.
  • Project management and cross-functional project leadership experience preferred.
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and drive actionable recommendations.

Responsibilities

  • Support and execute category strategies across Distribution Centers with local market alignment.
  • Develop customized category execution plans for optimal sales and customer satisfaction.
  • Analyze SKU performance and product assortments to identify growth opportunities.
  • Monitor category metrics to recommend actions for improved sales and efficiency.
  • Collaborate with teams to gather intelligence on market trends and customer preferences.
  • Manage assortment updates and product conversions effectively.
  • Foster relationships with vendors to support category strategies and growth.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
  • Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
  • Professional development and training opportunities.
  • Employee discounts on products and services.
Full Job Description

The Category Operations Manager plays a critical role in driving category growth, assortment optimization, and execution of strategic merchandising initiatives across multiple Distribution Centers within an assigned Area. This position serves as the key bridge between Category Management, Sales, Supply Chain, Vendors, and local market stakeholders to ensure category strategies are effectively implemented and aligned with customer needs, market trends, and business objectives.
This individual will leverage data-driven insights, industry expertise, and cross-functional collaboration to optimize product assortments, improve category performance, identify growth opportunities, and support profitable sales growth. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker who excels in a matrixed environment, builds strong relationships, influences stakeholders, and delivers results through effective project management and change leadership.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Support and execute category strategies across multiple Distribution Centers within the assigned Area, ensuring alignment with national objectives and local market needs.
  • Develop and implement customized category execution plans that drive assortment optimization, sales growth, profitability, and customer satisfaction.
  • Analyze product assortments, SKU performance, and category penetration to identify opportunities for growth, eliminate duplication, and improve overall assortment effectiveness.
  • Monitor category performance metrics and recommend data-driven actions to improve sales, margin, and operational efficiency.
  • Partner with Sales, Culinary, Merchandising, and Supply Chain teams to gather local market intelligence and identify emerging trends, customer preferences, and competitive opportunities.
  • Manage assortment updates, exception SKU requests, dead and slow-moving inventory evaluations, and product conversion initiatives.
  • Foster strong relationships with vendor partners, brokers, and suppliers to support category strategies and maximize growth opportunities.
  • Facilitate product launches, training programs, and new product introductions to ensure successful execution and adoption across the organization.
  • Support customer business reviews, major account bids, product onboarding, and category-specific business opportunities.
  • Collaborate with Food Safety & Quality Assurance (FSQA) teams to address product-related inquiries and ensure compliance with company standards.
  • Serve as a trusted category expert and advisor to Area and Distribution Center leadership teams by providing strategic recommendations and actionable insights.
  • Drive organizational change and influence stakeholders to achieve category objectives and continuous improvement initiatives.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, Food Service Management, or a related field required.
  • Equivalent combination of education and relevant industry experience may be considered.
Experience
  • Minimum of 7 years of Category Management experience required.
  • Experience within foodservice distribution, food manufacturing, consumer packaged goods (CPG), retail, or a related industry strongly preferred.
  • Project management experience and leading cross-functional initiatives preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Strong understanding of category management principles, assortment optimization, merchandising strategies, and market analysis.
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze data and translate insights into actionable business recommendations.
  • Proven success influencing stakeholders and driving results within a matrixed organization.
  • Strong business acumen with the ability to balance customer needs, operational requirements, and financial objectives.
  • Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
  • Ability to lead change initiatives and gain buy-in across multiple levels of the organization.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office Suite; PowerPoint required.
  • Experience with business intelligence, sales analytics, and category reporting tools preferred.
  • Self-motivated, results-driven, and capable of operating independently in a fast-paced environment.

Compensation depends on relevant experience and/or education, specific skills, function, geographic location, and other factors as applicable by law (for example: state or local minimum wage thresholds).  The expected base rate for this role is between

$70,000 - $115,000

About US Foods Holding Corp

US Foods is a foodservice distributor that provides its customers with innovative food offerings, e-commerce, technology, and a suite of business solutions. The company partners with foodservice operators to inspire menus, attract diners, and optimize operations. US Foods was founded in 1853 and is headquartered in Rosamond, Illinois.

US Foods Holding Corp Careers

Join the dynamic team at US Foods Holding Corp, one of the leading foodservice distributors in the United States. At US Foods, we are committed to shaping the future of foodservice with dedication and innovation. This is an unparalleled opportunity to become part of a company that values leadership, diversity, and professional growth.

Work You’ll Do

At US Foods, we offer a variety of job opportunities that allow you to bring your passion and creativity to the table. Our team is driven by the pursuit of excellence and is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that supports growth and professional development. Whether you are looking for a position in sales, logistics, marketing, or culinary development, US Foods provides a platform where your skills will be nurtured and celebrated.

Innovate and Lead

Join a group of forward-thinking professionals who are continuously driving innovation in the foodservice industry. US Foods is at the forefront of developing new strategies and solutions that not only meet but exceed the needs of our customers. With a focus on sustainable and efficient practices, your work will directly contribute to transforming the landscape of foodservice distribution.

Career Development and Benefits

US Foods is dedicated to the growth and development of its employees. We offer robust training programs and leadership development opportunities that prepare you for the next steps in your career. Our benefits package is designed to support the health, well-being, and financial security of our team members and their families. From comprehensive health insurance to retirement plans and employee discounts, US Foods aims to enhance the lives of our employees.

Internship Programs

For those starting their career journey, our internship programs provide a hands-on experience in a competitive and exhilarating environment. Interns at US Foods gain valuable industry knowledge and professional experience, working alongside seasoned experts. Our internships are a gateway to full-time employment and a great way to kickstart your career in the foodservice industry.

Join Our Team

Explore the employment opportunities at US Foods Holding Corp and find the right fit for your skills and interests. We are continuously hiring and looking for ambitious, curious, and innovative team players. Dive into a workplace where your efforts are recognized and where you can genuinely see the impact of your work.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest company news, job openings, and industry insights. Connect with us through our careers blog and join our networking events to meet other professionals in the foodservice industry. Personalize your job search and stay informed about new positions that match your career aspirations.

Apply Now

Ready to advance your career at US Foods Holding Corp? Check out our current job openings and submit your resume. Our hiring process is straightforward, and our recruitment team is eager to meet potential new members. Prepare for your interview, showcase your skills, and join a company that’s redefining food innovation and service.

SEARCH US FOODS JOBS

At US Foods Holding Corp, we believe in empowering our employees to achieve their best. Join us and be part of a team that is passionate about food, customer service, and innovation.
Learn more about US Foods Holding Corp
Size
28,000 employees
Market Cap
$7.7 billion
Industry
Food & Beverages
Net Income
-$226 million
Founded
1853
5 Year Trend
+5.2%
Revenue
$22.8 billion
NASDAQ
USFD
* Ladders Estimates

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