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Category Manager – Deli/Bakery
Company : KJ's Market
Location : Scranton, SC, 29591
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 5 January 2026
Overview
The Category Manager - Deli/Bakery for W. Lee Flowers will achieve sales, profit and Guest satisfaction goals by acting as the category expert. Develops programs to position us to win in the marketplace. This role supports category management for Kj's Market and corporate owned IGA locations.
Responsibilities
1. Ensures that products are organized into categories that reflect Guest buying habits.2. Using internal scan movement and IRI or Nielsen market data, develop and execute a plan for each category to achieve retail sales and gross margin profits, market share goals and specified positioning. Collaborates with vendor partners, retail operations, and warehouse (MDI and WLF). Considers how implementation of the plan at retail effects the total yield of the category and/or organization (Alex Lee).3. Determines the correct product assortment for our Guests in current and new markets. Works closely with our retail planning department to complete planograms and their successful implementation. Closely monitors the results of these resets to make sure we achieve the desired goals of the process. 4. Negotiates with vendors for the lowest cost of goods. Understands and analyzes vendor cost and promotional allowance structures and how our net cost of goods compares to our competition.5. Sets promotional plans for items and categories that increase sales to the Guest, satisfy vendor requirements and achieve the desired total net profits. Works closely with marketing, eCommerce, and advertising to develop ideas for promotion and advertising and ensure their correct implementation.6. Stays abreast of changes in the marketplace in assigned categories (retail pricing, variety, etc.) by visiting our stores and the competition on a regular basis. Include regular visits to traditional competitors as well as non-traditional competition.7. Monitors retail prices and strategy. Recommends any changes necessary.8. Monitors results through internal data, IRI/Neilsen tracking, and vendor reporting. The Manager should be able to interpret this data and make informed decisions about the category. 9. Works closely with members of the MDI/WLF buying staff to ensure we are achieving desired combined goals and service levels.10. Communicates all plans and promotions clearly to necessary parties.
Qualifications
Candidate should possess the qualities associated with Alex Lee values. Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent experience) in business or related area. Retail store experience, preferably to at least the department manager or co-manager level. Previous category manager experience preferred. Candidate should be skilled in negotiation, analysis, planning and organizational skills. Computer proficiency in email, Excel, Word, Power BI, IRI, or Nielsen marketing systems, and other internal systems is necessary. Due to the need for influencing many areas of the Alex Lee organization, excellent interpersonal and communication skills are required, including conflict resolution.
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Frequently asked questions
In this role, the manager evaluates guest preferences and market data to curate product selections tailored for deli and bakery categories. They balance variety with demand, ensuring offerings align with local tastes and maximize sales opportunities within the Scranton, SC market.
Strong negotiation abilities, data analysis proficiency with tools like IRI or Nielsen, and interpersonal communication are crucial. Additionally, experience in retail operations and category planning enables managers to optimize profitability and guest satisfaction effectively.
Advancement typically leads to senior category management or director-level positions. Gaining expertise in vendor relations, strategic planning, and cross-functional leadership opens doors to broader category oversight or corporate-level responsibilities.
KJ's Market integrates category expertise with local market insights to drive sales and guest satisfaction. The role involves close collaboration with vendors and internal teams to align category strategies with the company’s retail objectives.
They design promotions that balance vendor requirements with customer appeal, coordinating with marketing and advertising to execute campaigns that boost category sales while ensuring profitability.
Category Managers in deli and bakery sectors around Scranton typically earn between $65,000 and $85,000 annually, depending on experience and company size, reflecting the specialized nature of category management in retail food markets.
While not mandatory, certifications in retail management, data analytics, or supply chain can improve candidacy. Familiarity with regional market trends and vendor ecosystems in South Carolina also provides a competitive edge.
Scranton's retail sector shows moderate demand for category management roles, with competition influenced by candidates’ experience in deli/bakery operations and proficiency in market data interpretation.
Vendor negotiation is vital; it directly affects cost of goods and promotional allowances. Effective negotiation skills enable managers to secure better pricing and promotional terms, positively impacting the category’s profitability.
Daily tasks include analyzing sales trends, coordinating with retail planning for planogram execution, monitoring competitor pricing, and collaborating with vendors and marketing to implement category strategies that drive growth.