Category Manager (Specialized in Premium Cheese)

Grandiose

(specialized in Premium Cheese)

Job Purpose

Across the Stores Cheese & Deli

• 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 cheese and deli industry.
• Product Management: Curate and manage a diverse range of cheese and deli products, including selection, sourcing, quality control, and inventory management.
• Sales and Marketing: Create and execute sales and marketing strategies to promote the business, increase sales, and expand the customer base. This may include pricing strategies, promotions, and branding.
• Inventory Control: Monitor and manage inventory levels to minimize waste and spoilage while maintaining a varied and appealing product selection.
• Supplier Relationships: Establish and maintain strong relationships with cheese and deli suppliers, farmers, and producers to ensure a consistent and reliable source of high-quality products.
• Staff Management: Recruit, train, and manage a team of employees, including deli counter staff, cheese experts, and sales representatives.
• 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.
• Quality Assurance: Implement and maintain strict quality control standards to ensure the freshness, safety, and quality of cheese and deli products.
• Compliance and Regulation: Ensure 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 cheese and deli industry.
• Menu Development: Create and maintain an attractive deli menu that showcases cheese and deli products in various forms, including sandwiches, charcuterie boards, and platters.
• Wine and Pairing Knowledge: Possess expertise in wine and food pairings, as well as the ability to recommend wine selections that complement the cheese and deli offerings.
• Events and Tastings: Plan and host events, tastings, and workshops to promote products, engage with the community, and attract new customers.
• Technology Adoption: Stay current with technology trends in the industry, including point-of-sale systems, inventory management software, and data analysis tools.
• Community Engagement: Engage with the local community and participate in community events and initiatives to strengthen the Grandiose presence and reputation.
• Reporting and Analysis: Monitor and analyze key performance metrics, such as sales, customer feedback, and inventory turnover, to identify areas for improvement and growth.
• Health and Safety: Ensure that safety protocols and hygiene standards are consistently met in food preparation and service areas.
• Crisis Management: Develop and implement contingency plans to address unexpected challenges, such as product recalls or adverse market conditions.
• The role of a Cheese & Deli Business Manager combines elements of culinary expertise, sales and marketing, inventory management, and business leadership. It requires a strong understanding of the industry, effective management skills, and a commitment to delivering high-quality products and service to customers.

Required Qualifications, Abilities & Skills

• Minimum 8-15 years of experience in the Cheese business.
• Deep expertise in the premium dairy or specialist cheese sector, including knowledge of global sourcing and artisanal producers.
• Strong financial acumen with the ability to manage P&L responsibilities and complex budgets.
• Advanced negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Excellent analytical skills with proficiency in category management software and data analysis tools.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate data into actionable commercial plans.

Skills

• Negotiation
• Contract Negotiation
• P&L Management
• Procurement
• Sales Strategy