SR ASSOCIATE CATEGORY MANAGER

Pilgrim's$95K — $125K *
Food & Beverages
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Economics, Business, Statistics, or related field; MBA preferred.
  • Over 3 years of experience in Foodservice or CPG Proteins, with a preference for Non-Commercial & K-12 Channel experience.
  • Experience in sales and customer presentations execution.
  • Strong communication, collaboration, and relationship building skills.
  • Analytical and consultative problem-solving skills must be demonstrated.
  • Proven planning and organizational skills in managing complex tasks.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and third-party reporting tool kits.

Responsibilities

  • Own and manage the PnL for the business unit, focusing on product mix and customer segmentation.
  • Execute category management strategies encompassing pricing, promotion, and product placement.
  • Build strong relationships with cross-functional teams to align and achieve business goals.
  • Act as a subject matter expert and communicate effectively with channel sales teams and customers.
  • Drive performance to budget across Net Sales, Gross Margin, and Volume.
  • Coordinate business planning and go-to-market strategies, including RFP and bid processes.
  • Conduct competitive analysis, monitor trends, and implement corrective actions as needed.

Benefits

  • Medical, Vision, and Dental coverage begins after 60 days of employment.
  • Paid Time Off includes sick leave, vacation, and 6 company-observed holidays.
  • 401(k) plan with company match begins after the first year of service.
  • Eligible for annual bonus participation based on company terms and conditions.
  • Continuous learning and career development opportunities offered to employees.
Full Job Description
Description

Sr. Associate - Category Manager, Prepared Foods - Non-Commercial Foodservice

Purpose and Scope/General Summary; This Role Will...
  • Own and support the PnL (profit and loss attribution) for the business unit, specifically the product mix and customer segmentation aligned to the Foodservice Non-Commercial Channel (including K-12 Schools, Contracted Managed and Group Purchasing Organizations).
  • Execute category management fundamentals (price, product, promotion, placement) for the product mix & channel under management including but not limited to; Gross to Net, Trade Management, Cost of Goods, Gross Margin, Product Assortment & Optimization and Channel Go-To-Market Strategy.
  • Develop effective relationships with cross-functional teams to prioritize and drive business objectives. Cross functional teams include Category Development, Revenue Growth Management, Digital Transformation, Brand & Digital Marketing, Innovation & Project Management, Culinary, Supply Chain & Demand Planning, Finance, Operations and Sales.
  • Proactively operate at the center of the cross-functional structure as a subject matter expert & effective conduit to our channel sales teams and prioritized customers.


Successful Candidates Will...
  • Be a 'Cultural Fit' and live our values professionally with - Ownership, Determination, Discipline, Availability, Simplicity, Humility and Sincerity.
  • Be a 'Cross-Functional Leader' with - prioritization & execution of business objectives, driving profitable growth and executing Channel Strategies. Candidates will need tactical interpersonal skills to manage indirect reports within the organization to execute objectives.
  • Be a 'Challenger' by - challenging the status quo, breaking down and rebuilding processes, establishing new & more efficient processes with cross-functional alignment to drive business objectives. Candidates must demonstrate an ability to negotiate effectively with cross-functional teams, sales and customers to achieve desired outcomes.
  • Be an 'Owner' of the fundamentals of their role by - understanding the process and tactical details of managing their role in all aspects, execute tasks and routines per designed timelines, develop subject matter expertise to drive cross-functional alignment and communicate clearly, effectively and respectfully.


Tactical Responsibilities of the Role Include
  • PnL Management: drive performance to budget for Net Sales, Gross Margin & Volume.
  • Business Planning: go-to-market strategy & execution, annual budgetary planning, annual & cyclical RFP and bid management process.
  • Portfolio Management: SKU optimization & rationalization, new product post-launch activation.
  • Channel Management: K-12 School, Contract Managed & Group Purchasing organization customers, coordination with defined teams to implement and execute budgeted growth.
  • Performance Management: in coordination with Category Development & Sales including core PnL deliverables, industry and customer specific share growth targets.
  • Additional Activities: including but not limited to competitive set analysis & response, monitor trends for strategic activation, channel SWOT analysis & corrective actions and strategic customer joint business planning & activation, contract bid timeline management, regulatory and nutritional compliance. Other duties as assigned.


Qualifications:
  • Education:
    • Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Economics, Business, Statistics, or related field.
    • MBA preferred, not required.
  • Experience:
    • >3 years of experience within Foodservice or CPG Proteins.
    • Non-Commercial & K-12 Channel experience preferred.
    • Experience working with sales & executing customer presentations.
    • Excellent communication, collaboration and relationship building skills.
    • Strong analytical, consultative and problem-solving skills.
    • Demonstrated planning and organizational skills within complex time-bound tasks.
    • Microsoft Office Suite & Adobe proficiency (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
    • Demonstrated proficiency in third party reporting tool kits (ex. Qlik, Microsoft Dynamics, Fidelis, Processor Link, Blacksmith/Telus, etc.).
  • Can perform the functions of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation
  • As a salaried position with the company, you may be required to travel at some point to other facilities, to attend Company events, or as a representative of the Company in other situations. Unless otherwise specified in this posting, the amount of travel may vary and the most qualified candidate must be willing and able to travel as business needs dictate.


The applicant who fills this position will be eligible for the following compensation and benefits:
  • Benefits: Vision, Medical, and Dental coverage begin after 60 days of employment;
  • Paid Time Off: sick leave, vacation, and 6 company observed holidays;
  • 401(k): company match begins after the first year of service and follows the company vesting schedule;
  • Base salary range of $95,000 - $125,000;
  • Incentive Pay: This position is eligible to participate in the Company's annual bonus plan, the amount of bonus varies and is subject to the standard terms and conditions of the incentive program; and
  • Career Development: Our company is dedicated to supporting professional growth by offering continuous learning opportunities and a focus on career growth through various learning and development programs.


For individuals assigned and/or hired to work in states where it is required by law to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for any given position, compensation ranges are specific to those states and takes into account various factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to a candidate's relevant experience, qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiencies for the role.

This position does not have an application deadline. We will continue to recruit until the position has been filled.

About Pilgrim's

Pilgrim's Careers

Joining Pilgrim's global team offers a unique opportunity to advance a career in an environment where innovation, leadership, and diversity training are at the forefront of the industry. Pilgrim's, a leader in the food industry, is renowned for its commitment to excellence and sustainable practices.

Explore Job Opportunities

Pilgrim's offers a variety of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and professional interests. Whether it's in management, operations, or customer service, Pilgrim's is actively hiring and looking for individuals who are passionate about the food industry and eager to make a significant impact.

Internship Programs

Pilgrim's internship programs provide invaluable industry experience and a pathway to full-time employment. Interns at Pilgrim's gain hands-on experience, working alongside seasoned professionals and contributing to real-world projects that enhance their skills and prepare them for future career opportunities.

Professional Growth and Benefits

Pilgrim's is dedicated to the professional growth of its team members, offering robust training programs and opportunities for advancement. Employees enjoy competitive benefits that support their health, well-being, and financial security. The company culture promotes continuous learning and encourages team members to reach their full potential.

Inclusive Culture and Diversity

The culture at Pilgrim's is built on a foundation of respect and inclusion, where diversity is valued and every team member's contribution is recognized. Pilgrim's diversity training programs are designed to foster an inclusive workplace that promotes mutual respect and teamwork.

Leadership and Innovation

At Pilgrim's, leadership and innovation go hand in hand. The company empowers its team to lead with confidence and creativity, driving the industry forward through innovative practices and solutions. Pilgrim's leadership is committed to maintaining a culture where new ideas are welcomed and rewarded.

Networking and Career Development

Pilgrim's encourages professional networking and career development through various platforms and events. These opportunities allow team members to connect with industry leaders, enhance their professional network, and discover new career paths within the company.

Applying for a Position

To apply for a position at Pilgrim's, candidates should prepare a resume that highlights relevant experience and skills. The interview process at Pilgrim's is designed to assess not only professional qualifications but also a candidate's fit within the company culture. Interested individuals can explore open positions and submit their applications through the Pilgrim's Jobs portal.

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Join the Team

Pilgrim's is looking for curious, creative, and solution-driven team players ready to contribute to a leading global company. Search open positions that match your skills and interests on the Pilgrim's Jobs portal today.

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