The purpose of this job is to lead a category team and manage a category (or categories) of products with the goal of increasing sales and gross profit dollars.
- Develop and own annual category plan and three-year strategic vision for each category; write and present annual budget plan to senior team
- Review category monthly and yearly performance financials and monthly review of profit and loss (P&L) performance
- Drive category review planning and presentation with direct report category team and support teams
- Maintain in-depth knowledge of all contracts and obligations to ensure that both Pilot Flying J (PFJ) and vendor adhere to the agreed-upon term and spirit of the contract or agreement
- Participate in industry events that add value to business planning process
- Visit stores to engage customers and team members in category directional feedback on products and promotions
- Lead vendor process including review of new products, business planning, cost negotiations, RFP execution, and supply chain management
- Maintain active involvement in inventory management and controls
- Study industry and category trends to support planning and development process
- Supervise and provide daily oversight of direct reports; select, coach, train, and develop direct reports, to include appraising job performance and conducting performance reviews
- Model behaviors that support the company’s common purpose; ensure guests and team members are supported at the highest level
- Ensure all activities are in compliance with rules, regulations, policies, and procedures
- Complete other duties as assigned
- Partner with culinary, innovation, and brand teams to deliver annual profit plan
- Partner with operations teams to ensure training and operational excellence
- Collaborate with brand and marketing teams on promotions and merchandising strategy
- Develop category business plans including product assortment, pricing, LTO’s, and promotional calendars