Welcome to Gelson’s! For over 75 years, Gelson’s has served Southern California shoppers with an enthusiasm for food of the highest quality. Our commitment to quality, selection and exceptional service sets us apart. We strive to exceed our customers’ expectations with every visit, and we take pride in creating a positive shopping experience.
Gelson’s is seeking an experienced Category Manager to lead and grow assigned product categories. This position is responsible for developing and executing category strategies that drive sales, profitability, and inventory productivity while delivering an exceptional customer experience.
The ideal candidate combines strong business and analytical skills with a passion for merchandising, product innovation, vendor relationships, and strategic execution.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute category strategies to achieve sales, margin, and profitability goals.
- Manage product assortment, pricing, promotions, and merchandising strategies.
- Identify opportunities for category growth, innovation, and private label development.
- Build and maintain strong vendor and manufacturer relationships, including negotiating pricing, contracts, and favorable purchasing terms.
- Partner with Marketing and Visual Merchandising to develop effective promotions, displays, and product presentations.
- Analyze sales, inventory, and market trends to identify opportunities and improve category performance.
- Oversee purchasing, replenishment, and product availability in partnership with Distribution Center teams.
- Monitor competitor activity and customer preferences to maintain a competitive product offering.
- Lead, develop, and support assigned team members.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in business, Marketing, Retail Management, or equivalent experience.
- Minimum of five years of category management and vendor management experience.
- Retail or supermarket industry experience preferred.
- Experience with financial analysis, inventory management, sourcing, and private label development preferred.
- Strong analytical, strategic planning, and negotiation skills.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and relationship-building abilities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects in a fast-paced environment.
Additional Requirements
- Occasional overnight travel may be required.
- Flexibility to work extended hours and occasional weekends as business needs require.
Salary range: $90,000 - $120,000
