Category Manager of Cigarettes, Tobacco & General Merchandise

Job Description

Job DescriptionDescription:

Job Summary:

This position is responsible for developing and implementing strategic initiatives to drive sales, profitability, and growth within the assigned categories. This position works closely with vendors, cross-functional teams and key stakeholders.to ensure the assortment meets the customer demands and aligns with company objectives.

The successful candidate has experience building strong relationships, driving significant top and bottom-line results, and managing multiple responsibilities within a fast-paced environment. They will work with strategic vendors/brands across assigned categories and must have the leadership presence and communication skills to represent Haffner’s at all levels of the organization.

The Category Manager must possess excellent analytical skills, strong negotiation abilities, and a deep understanding of the Tobacco OTP and General Merchandise market.

Responsibilities:

1. Develop and execute category strategies and assortment plans to maximize sales, profitability, and market share for tobacco and general merchandise.
2. Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and customer preferences to identify opportunities for assortment expansion or product innovation.
3. Analyze sales data, customer insights, and market research to make data-driven decisions regarding pricing, promotions, and product selection.
4. Collaborate with vendors to negotiate favorable terms, pricing, and promotions, while maintaining strong relationships and driving continuous improvement.
5. Manage vendor performance by monitoring key metrics, such as on-time delivery, product quality, and service levels.
6. Work closely with inventory management teams to optimize inventory levels, minimize stockouts, and reduce excess inventory.
7. Collaborate with marketing teams to develop effective go-to-market strategies, campaigns, and promotional activities for the category.
8. Create and maintain by-store planograms.
9. Conduct regular store visits to assess category performance, assess planograms, and gather feedback from store managers and associates.
10. Lead cross-functional teams to develop and implement new product launches, promotions, and marketing initiatives.
11. Regularly communicate category performance, insights, and recommendations to senior management and key stakeholders.

Job Environment:

This is a position in which 60% of time is spent in the field supporting operations supporting operations in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit or stand for long periods of time; communicate and exchange information; frequent use of a computer screen, keyboard, telephone, and/or manual writing.

Travel Required: Up to 60% depending on business needs.

About us: Haffner's: A Regional Leader Fueled by Family, Integrity, and Safety.

At Haffner's, we're more than a company – we're a family. As a prominent wholesale fuel distributor in New England, we've established a strong presence, managing 72 gas stations, convenience stores, car washes, and food service locations. Our renowned Haffner's brand operates across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine.

We go beyond fuel distribution, offering heating oil, propane, and HVAC services to 45,000 customers across the region. Our commitment to integrity and safety is unwavering; it's in everything we do. We prioritize building relationships and consistently doing the right thing.

Our culture thrives on growth, innovation, and excellence. As a part of our team, you'll contribute to our ongoing success, embracing the core values of "Fueled by Family," "Always do the right thing," and "Safety...In everything we do." Join us and be a part of a dynamic, forward-thinking organization that's shaping the future across diverse business markets.

Haffner’s is committed to equal employment opportunity and providing reasonable accommodations to those with physical and/or mental disabilities. We value and encourage diversity and do not discriminate based on race, color, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, change of sex or transgender status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.

Haffner’s is committed to providing a safe work environment for all employ

Requirements:

1. Bachelor’s degree in business administration, or equivalent experience.
2. Minimum of 2 years of experience in category management, purchasing, or related roles, preferably in the tobacco and general merchandise industry.
3. Strong understanding of the convenience store industry.
4. Strong knowledge and understanding of the tobacco and general merchandise market, including industry trends, regulations, and customer preferences.
5. Demonstrated experience in developing and executing category strategies, assortment planning, and vendor negotiations.
6. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and make informed decisions.
7. Previous P&L management and strong financial analysis skills Strong negotiation and influencing abilities, with a proven track record of achieving favorable terms and driving vendor performance.
8. Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex concepts and recommendations to diverse audiences.
9. Proficient in MS Office Suite and category management software.
10. Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
11. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and a proactive mindset.