Chief Category Manager

Purpose of Position

The Chief Category Manager (CCM) is a strategic leader responsible for driving the vision, innovation, and execution of category management across the organization. The CCM leverages advanced analytics, digital tools, and cross-functional collaboration to optimize category performance, ensure sustainable growth, and future-proof the business against market disruptions.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute the overall Category Management strategy aligned with company objectives.
• Lead annual category planning, sales budgeting, and performance reviews.
• Drive innovation through AI, digital tools, automation, and advanced analytics.
• Foster an agile, data-driven culture that responds effectively to market shifts and consumer trends.

Category & Commercial Management

• Oversee assortment planning, pricing strategies, merchandising, promotions, and category performance.
• Monitor market conditions, shopper behavior, competitor activities, and industry trends to identify growth opportunities.
• Manage sales, margin, profitability, and GMROI across all categories.
• Lead analytical reviews to optimize category performance and business outcomes.

Merchandising & Store Excellence

• Direct store merchandising strategies, planograms, product placement, secondary displays, and promotional execution.
• Ensure shelf space allocation and product visibility maximize customer engagement and profitability.
• Evaluate merchandising equipment and in-store marketing materials for effectiveness and return on investment.

Supplier & Strategic Partnerships

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and business partners.
• Lead supplier performance reviews, negotiations, and collaborative business planning.
• Implement supplier relationship management practices focused on innovation, risk mitigation, and value creation.

Sustainability & Responsible Sourcing

• Integrate sustainability and ESG principles into category strategies and supplier partnerships.
• Promote environmentally responsible products, packaging, and sourcing practices.

Marketing & E-Commerce Oversight

• Provide strategic oversight for Marketing and E-Commerce functions.
• Ensure category initiatives are effectively supported through promotional campaigns and digital channels.

• Drive omnichannel strategies that deliver seamless customer experiences.

Cost & Operational Management

• Identify opportunities to improve sourcing, procurement, logistics, inventory management, and operational efficiency.
• Support initiatives that reduce costs while maintaining service levels and business profitability.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team.
• Build capabilities in analytics, strategic thinking, digital technologies, and category management best practices.
• Conduct performance reviews and promote continuous learning and professional growth.

Required Qualification, Experience, Knowledge

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Data Science, Marketing, or related field; Master’s preferred
• 5+ years’ experience in category management, procurement, or retail leadership, with proven exposure to digital transformation and sustainability initiatives.
• Advanced knowledge of analytics platforms, AI tools, and digital procurement systems.
• Extensive knowledge of Microsoft software
• Knowledge of the principles of Category Management
• Working knowledge of general accounting principles

GraceKennedy's Competencies

GraceKennedy embraces six key competencies that all employees, regardless of level, should master and demonstrate across the organization. These are:
•    Results Oriented
•    Digitally Savvy
•    Collaborative
•    Engaging & Inspiring
•    Diversity-Embracing
•    GK Values-Driven