Category Manager (Fruits & Vegetables)

Job Purpose

Across The Stores Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

• SKU Management
• Merchandising strategy & Development
• Inventory management - Availability, Visibility & Variety
• Vendor management
• Sales analysis and forecasting
• Team management
• Price and Margin optimization

Key Responsibilities

• **Business Strategy:**
• Develop and implement a strategic business plan that defines the company's goals, growth targets, and market positioning within the vegetable and fruits vertical.
• **Operations Management:**
• Oversee the daily operations of the business, including sourcing, quality control, storage, packaging, and distribution of fresh produce.
• **Supply Chain Management:**
• Manage the supply chain to ensure a consistent and reliable source of fresh vegetables and fruits.
• This includes building relationships with suppliers, growers, and distributors.
• **Quality Control:**
• Implement and maintain strict quality control standards to ensure the freshness, safety, and quality of the produce.
• **Inventory Management:**
• Monitor and manage inventory levels to minimize waste and spoilage while meeting customer demand.
• **Sales and Marketing:**
• Develop and execute sales and marketing strategies to increase market share, expand customer base, and promote the business.
• This may include pricing strategies, promotions, and branding.
• **Customer Relationship Management:**
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, which may include our nearby restaurants, grocery shops, and individual consumers.
• **Financial Management:**
• Oversee the financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, cost control, and revenue growth.
• Ensure the business operates within budget and is financially sustainable.
• **Team Leadership:**
• Recruit, train, and manage a team of employees, including areas leaders, sales representatives, and warehouse personnel if necessary.
• **Compliance and Regulation:**
• Ensure that the business complies with all relevant food safety and health regulations, permits, and licenses.
• **Market Research:**
• Stay updated on market trends, customer preferences, and competitors in the vegetable and fruits industry.
• **Logistics and Distribution:**
• Manage the logistics and distribution network, including transportation, storage facilities, and delivery schedules along with other business subsidiaries.
• **Risk Management:**
• Identify and mitigate potential risks, such as supply chain disruptions, price fluctuations, or market challenges.
• **Customer Service:**
• Address customer inquiries, feedback, and concerns promptly to maintain a positive reputation and build customer loyalty.
• **Product Development:**
• Explore opportunities for expanding product offerings, such as organic produce, pre-cut and packaged items, or value-added products.
• **Reporting and Analysis:**
• Monitor and analyze key performance metrics and generate reports for senior management, identifying areas for improvement and growth.
• **Crisis Management:**
• Develop and implement contingency plans to address unexpected challenges, such as product recalls or adverse weather conditions affecting supply.
• **Technology Adoption:**
• Stay current with technology trends in the industry, including software for inventory management, sales, and data analysis, and implement appropriate solutions.

Required Qualifications, Skills & Experience

• At least 7+ years of experience in FMCG Retail or Fresh product (fruit& Vegetable distribution) industry.
• Must be a graduate or masters in any discipline