Vice President - Product Category Management & Culinary

Inspire Brands, Inc. • $150K — $200K *
Oklahoma City, OK 73160In-Person
Food & Beverages
11 - 15 years of experience
1 month ago
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 12+ years of experience in product/category management or related fields, with at least 5 years in senior roles
  • 4-year Degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field; advanced degree preferred
  • Record of success in driving category growth and profitability
  • Strong analytical skills with expertise in P&L management
  • Experience in multi-unit retail, consumer goods, or foodservice industries

Responsibilities

  • Define and implement the vision and strategy for all product categories
  • Drive innovation and identify opportunities for category expansion
  • Develop and execute the culinary vision and innovation roadmap
  • Lead and mentor executive chefs and culinary teams
  • Ensure brand standards and high-quality execution across locations
  • Oversee product assortment strategy, pricing, and lifecycle management
  • Adjust strategies based on category performance data

Benefits

  • Opportunity to shape and execute brand strategy
  • Engagement in culinary innovation and operational excellence
  • Leadership role overseeing a diverse team
  • Onsite presence contributing to hands-on leadership
  • Position in a key corporate office with strategic influence
Full Job Description
The Vice President - Product Category Management & Culinary is the senior executive responsible for shaping and executing the strategy, performance, and profitability of product categories across the SONIC brand organization.

Reporting directly to the SONIC Chief Marketing Officer, this leader will oversee category planning, product lifecycle management, assortment optimization, pricing, vendor relationships, and go-to-market strategies. This VP will also drive the overall culinary vision, innovation, and operational excellence across all food and beverage outlets within the organization.

This executive ensures brand consistency, menu development, food quality, and cost control, while leading a team of product category and culinary professionals to deliver exceptional guest experiences and support business growth.

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Define and implement the overall vision, strategy, and long-term roadmap for all product categories
  • Drive innovation and identify opportunities for category expansion or repositioning
  • Develop and execute the company's culinary vision, strategy, and innovation roadmap
  • Provide leadership and mentorship to executive chefs, regional culinary directors, and kitchen teams
  • Ensure brand standards, menu consistency, and high-quality execution across all locations
  • Oversee product assortment strategy, pricing, and lifecycle management for assigned categories
  • Monitor category performance, adjusting strategies to optimize sales, margins, and inventory
  • Lead the creation of new menu items that align with brand identity, consumer trends, and profitability goals
  • Partner with brand experience to launch seasonal and promotional offerings
  • Oversee recipe standardization, testing, and rollouts across the system
  • Partner with merchandising and supply chain to optimize sourcing, vendor relationships, and cost efficiency
  • Collaborate with brand experience and digital teams to develop category-specific promotional plans
  • Work closely with finance to set category budgets, forecasts, and financial performance targets
  • Monitor food cost, waste management, and vendor relationships to maximize profitability
  • Collaborate with supply chain and procurement teams to source quality, sustainable, and cost-effective ingredients
  • Build, lead, and develop a high-performing category & culinary management team.
  • Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and customer-centric thinking
  • Ensure culinary excellence that supports overall brand reputation and customer satisfaction
  • Representing the culinary function at industry events, trade shows, and media opportunities
  • Establish KPIs and dashboards to measure category health and business performance
  • Use data-driven insights to drive decision-making and continuous improvement
  • Deliver regular performance updates to executive leadership and key stakeholders


EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS
  • 12+ years of progressive experience in product/category management, merchandising, or related fields, with at least 5 years in senior leadership roles
  • 4-year Degree in Business, Marketing or related field required. Advanced degree preferred
  • Proven success in driving category growth, profitability, and innovation
  • Strong analytical skills with expertise in P&L management and data-driven decision-making
  • Experience in multi-unit retail, consumer goods, or foodservice industries highly preferred


REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, OR ABILITIES
  • Exceptional strategic thinking skills with a strong commercial mindset
  • Results-oriented with strong ability to balance short-term wins and long-term growth
  • Proven skills in building strong vendor partnerships and customer-centric strategies
  • Collaborative leader who thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills


This position sits within our Atlanta based Global Support Center with an expectation to be onsite 80% of the time.

About Inspire Brands, Inc.

Inspire Brands, Inc. Careers

Joining Inspire Brands, Inc. presents a prime opportunity to be part of a diverse team of professionals dedicated to pioneering innovations in the food and beverage industry. Inspire Brands, Inc. stands out as a leader in creating dynamic dining experiences and is renowned for its commitment to excellence and growth.

Explore Job Opportunities

Inspire Brands, Inc. offers a variety of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and interests. From leadership positions that shape the strategic direction of the company to entry-level roles that build professional foundations, there is a place for every ambitious individual. Explore open positions that align with your career aspirations and skills.

Internship Programs

Kickstart a career with Inspire Brands, Inc. through robust internship programs designed to foster skills and offer real-world experience in a supportive environment. Internships are a gateway to full-time employment and provide invaluable industry exposure.

Professional Growth and Development

Inspire Brands, Inc. is committed to the professional growth of its team members. With comprehensive training programs, including leadership development and diversity training, employees are equipped to excel in their roles and advance their careers. The company supports obtaining industry-recognized certifications and continuous learning.

Culture and Benefits

The culture at Inspire Brands, Inc. is built on a foundation of innovation and teamwork. Employees enjoy a range of benefits designed to support both their professional and personal lives. Benefits include health and wellness programs, competitive compensation packages, and flexible working conditions that underscore the company’s commitment to employee well-being.

Hiring Process

The hiring process at Inspire Brands, Inc. is designed to be transparent and engaging. Candidates can expect a thorough interview process where they can showcase their skills and learn about the company’s values and opportunities for career advancement. Tips for crafting an effective resume and succeeding in interviews are available through the company’s career blog.

Networking and Career Advancement

Inspire Brands, Inc. encourages networking within the industry, offering employees opportunities to connect with leaders and peers through professional groups and company events. These interactions often lead to innovative ideas and career advancement.

Join the Inspire Brands, Inc. Team

Search for available positions that match your skills and interests. Inspire Brands, Inc. looks for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. Start the journey to a rewarding career with Inspire Brands, Inc. and help shape the future of dining experiences globally.

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Learn more about Inspire Brands, Inc.
Industry
Food & Beverages
* Ladders Estimates

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