Assistant Category Manager

Summary

Manages overall product/program timeline with other departments to ensure products/programs are executed with excellence and are driving sales and profits for both the franchisee and Hot Stuff Foods, LLC. Provides the field with the necessary tools to maximize new product/program participation, sales and profits.  Responsible for field communication to franchisees and GROWTH Team to ensure marketing plans are explained in detail to facilitate a flawless sell-in process.  Work closely with marketing partner to ensure that all promotions are effective, improved upon continuously, new promotions are developed and the promotions must work seamlessly with the national brand promotions.  From time to time, the category manager may be asked to provide training and education to the GROWTH Team for assigned categories, both for initial and ongoing training.  The final responsibility will be to manage the product assortment for assigned categories.  Proactively seek out and capitalize on any new products, facilitate the constant improvement of all existing products and deplete/delete slow selling products within assigned categories. 

 ResponsibilitiesWork closely with assigned Sr. Category Manager to develop products and profit building promotions for assigned categories.Provide input as it relates to promotions, new product rollouts, strategies, and department direction.Coordinate, manage and monitor timelines for all new products, platforms and/or products. Work closely and proactively with all other departments to ensure timelines are met to ensure a smooth introduction.Develop compelling product information packets (PIPs) to thoroughly communicate all new products, platforms and programs.Develop presentations as needed for new programs and/or platforms.Assist in the product assortment for assigned categories.  Proactively seek out and capitalize on any new products, facilitate the constant improvement of all existing products and deplete/delete slow selling products within assigned categories.  Manage and recommend sell prices for all items within assigned categories.Coordinate, implement and manage Hot Stuff Foods field tests. Provide Executive Directors with information as it relates to field/franchisee feedback, product/promotional success or lack of, opportunities, challenges and solutions.Provide weekly recap of all current projects/activities to Sr. Category Manager.Develop annual Category plans to include financial goals and objectives.Field and franchisee visits as requested and/or required for projects.

 Qualifications

Degree from four-year college or university preferred; or relevant combination of education and experience.

Experience in the food industry preferred.