This position provides the opportunity for the new team member to be based in either the Murphy USA (El Dorado, AR) or QuickChek (Whitehouse Station, NJ) corporate office.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF POSITION
As the Sr. Category Manager, Fresh Food - Enterprise Food & Beverage at QuickChek (a subsidiary of Murphy USA), you will lead the largest area of the QuickChek food & beverage business. You will be responsible for owning food strategy and driving successful implementation and execution. This individual will collaborate closely with the Director of Enterprise Food & Beverage Category Management with, amongst other things: strategy development, merchandising initiatives, product mix, placement, pricing, partner/vendor negotiations and team leadership.

This individual will work closely with internal partners to analyze existing business and be responsible for helping to drive strategy, innovation, and strong financial performance across the category. The successful candidate will possess strong leadership skills, curiosity, attention to detail, high energy, agility, and sound business acumen. This individual will be able to operate in a flexible, fast-paced environment that is highly collaborative and team-oriented.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Develop and implement the strategic plan for food product lines.
• Manage the area end-to-end with a focus on strategy, execution, financial results (P&L)
• Remain informed about market trends, customer preferences, and competitive landscape to identify new growth opportunities and assist in selecting the right mix of products for the category based on those factors.
• Establish and maintain relationships with partners, suppliers, vendors.
• Negotiate terms, pricing, and agreements with vendors to optimize costs and maintain product quality.
• Assist in selecting the right mix of products for the category based on customer demands and market trends.
• Collaborate with Analytics, Revenue Management, Marketing, Sales, Operations, and other departments to set pricing strategies and guide category strategy.
• Assist in planning and executing promotional campaigns to drive sales and customer engagement.
• Analyze sales data and customer feedback to make informed decisions about assortment adjustments and pricing changes.
• Develops annual category plans which include current situation analysis, vision/strategy, and specific category plans. Plans include assortment and positioning, product improvements and development plans, projected revenues and gross profit, display, price, promotion and communication to stores.
• Plans seasonal calendars, monthly implementation plans and recurring assortment change calendars.
• Works with Marketing Department on advertising/promotions for assigned category.
• Prepare and present reports on category performance and key metrics.
• Performs routine SKU rationalization and works closely with suppliers and operations
• Assist in the launch of new products, including market research, pricing, and promotional planning.
• Expect to travel ~25% of the time
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE/ QUALIFICATIONS/ ATTRIBUTES
• A minimum of 5-7 years of full-time experience (10+ years preferred) specifically in category management - ideally in the quick service restaurant ("QSR"), convenience store, food & beverage, and/or multi-unit retail industry. Knowledge of market trends, and customer preferences is a plus.
• Ability to lead a team as well as influence others across the organization, including senior leadership.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make data-driven decisions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
EDUCATION
• A four-year college degree is required.