Salary Range
USD $80,000.00/Yr. - USD $93,000.00/Yr.Overview
Job Summary
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The Category Manager - Grocery, is responsible for developing and maintaining category assortments, planograms, pricing, and promotional strategies that support Natural Grocers’ competitive position and profitability. This role leads supplier negotiations, drives margin performance, stays aligned with trends and seasonality, and supports successful store‑level execution through strong collaboration and oversight. Â
Responsibilities
Main Ingredients:
Assortments & PlanogramsDevelop and maintain core assortments and schematics, including new, exclusive, and private label itemsManage product introductions, discontinuations, and store‑specific assortmentsPartner with coordinators and stores to ensure accurate and consistent execution, including new store launchesNew Products & Vendor SupportEvaluate new products to ensure alignment with Natural Grocers’ quality standardsNegotiate with suppliers to secure competitive costs, value‑added programs, and exclusivity opportunitiesMaintain strong vendor and broker relationships to support long‑term category growthOrdering & InventoryManage promotional, new products, and new store ordering and new store order coordinating activitiesManage accurate pricing and inventory levelsEnsure returns, recalls, and related credits are properly executed and recoveredPromotions & PricingManages promotional execution, documentation, and validation of vendor fundingImplement pricing strategies that balance competitiveness and margin goalsOversee pricing, freight, and promotional discrepancies to minimize lost sales and margin riskCommunication & CollaborationServe as a key point of contact for stores, coordinators, suppliers, brokers, and internal partnersProvide guidance and education to support successful in‑store execution of purchasing initiativesSupervisory ResponsibilitiesHire, coach, and manage two Purchasing Assistant(s) or other support rolesOversee daily workflow, accuracy, and prioritizationConduct performance reviews and manage employee development and corrective actions in accordance with company policyQualifications
Recipe for Success:Â
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Bachelor’s degree in business preferred Minimum 3 years’ experience in a buying or category management role, preferably corporate retail in natural foods Excellent written and communication skills are required  Ability to manage several complex projects simultaneously while working under pressure to meet deadlines Computer proficiency and technical aptitude with the ability to utilize MS Word, Excel, Power Point, Access, and Outlook are required Previous experience with SAP a plus Strong analytical skills with the ability to analyze results  Strong relationship building, negotiations, and influencing skills Travel up to 25% 
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