Job Description SummaryThis position reports to the VP, Service and Equipment or designate, and manages a number of direct and indirect reports. The Group Manager, Strategic Programs is responsible for leading the development, execution, growth, and profitability of key merchandising and strategic business programs across the organization. This role oversees a team of Merchandise Sales Specialists and other program professionals to drive revenue growth, margin enhancement, market share expansion, and operational excellence.
The incumbent develops and executes strategic go-to-market plans, manages vendor relationships, oversees pricing strategy and analysis, and directs product lifecycle processes including vendor onboarding, product setup, and code creation. Working cross-functionally with Sales, Marketing, Operations, Finance, and Supply Chain, the Group Manager ensures strategic business initiatives align with organizational objectives and deliver measurable results.
The role serves as a key liaison between vendors, internal stakeholders, and strategic customers while supporting the continued growth of the Distribution and Sundries businesses.
Job DescriptionResponsibilities:Strategic Leadership & Portfolio Management- Develop and implement strategic plans for assigned product portfolios and business programs based on market trends, customer needs, competitive intelligence, and organizational objectives.
- Lead the growth and execution of merchandising, private label, strategic customer, and distribution programs to drive revenue and profitability.
- Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and regularly evaluate program performance, providing recommendations and action plans to senior leadership.
- Identify market opportunities, product gaps, and competitive advantages, developing strategies to strengthen market position and customer value.
- Review market share data and industry trends to create targeted growth initiatives.
Pricing Strategy & Analysis- Lead pricing strategy development and oversee pricing analysis processes to optimize sales, profitability, and competitive positioning.
- Monitor competitive pricing, market conditions, customer buying patterns, and margin opportunities, making recommendations and adjustments as required.
- Partner with Finance and Sales leadership to evaluate pricing effectiveness and support strategic business decisions.
- Ensure pricing governance, consistency, and accuracy across product categories and programs.
Vendor & Product Management- Develop and maintain strategic relationships with manufacturers, suppliers, and vendor partners.
- Oversee vendor onboarding and vendor creation processes, ensuring compliance with organizational standards and operational requirements.
- Direct product setup and code creation activities, ensuring timely execution, accuracy, and alignment with merchandising objectives.
- Manage and expand private label portfolios through supplier collaboration, product selection, and market development strategies.
- Attend vendor meetings, industry events, trade shows, and customer functions to strengthen relationships and identify business opportunities.
Sales Enablement & Marketing- Oversee the development and execution of comprehensive marketing plans, promotional programs, flyers, catalogs, and sales campaigns.
- Create and support sales enablement initiatives, tools, and training to improve sales effectiveness and drive program adoption.
- Partner with Sales leadership to develop and present strategic opportunities to key customers and large accounts.
- Travel with field sales representatives as required to support customer conversions, growth opportunities, and business development initiatives.
People Leadership- Directly manage and develop a team of Merchandise Sales Specialists and other program professionals.
- Provide leadership, coaching, mentorship, performance management, and professional development opportunities to team members.
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
- Ensure appropriate staffing, succession planning, and capability development to meet business objectives.
Operational Excellence- Establish and maintain processes that improve efficiency, data integrity, and program effectiveness.
- Lead cross-functional initiatives involving Sales, Marketing, Operations, Finance, and Supply Chain teams.
- Continuously review business processes, gather stakeholder feedback, and implement improvements to enhance organizational performance.
- Support other strategic initiatives and projects as required.
Qualifications: Education- Bachelor's Degree in Business, Marketing, Commerce, Healthcare Administration, or a related field.
- MBA or equivalent advanced business education is considered an asset.
Experience- Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in product management, merchandising, portfolio management, category management, strategic programs, or related commercial leadership roles.
- Minimum 3 years of people leadership experience, including hiring, coaching, developing, and managing high-performing teams.
- Experience managing vendor relationships, pricing strategies, and cross-functional business initiatives.
- Healthcare, distribution, dental, medical, or related industry experience is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities- Strong business, financial, and commercial acumen.
- Advanced pricing, analytical, and market assessment capabilities.
- Demonstrated experience managing vendor relationships and supplier negotiations.
- Strong knowledge of product lifecycle management, product setup, and code creation processes.
- Excellent leadership, communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to communicate complex business strategies and gain alignment across all levels of the organization.
- Strong analytical skills with advanced proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and related business tools.
- Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Category management and strategic planning experience preferred
The targeted hiring range for this position is
$128-150k. Actual compensation within this range will be determined based on factors such as the candidate's experience, qualifications, skills, geographic location, and knowledge relevant to the role.
The anticipated salary range for this position:
$128,200.00 - $192,200.00 Annual
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.
