Category Merchandising Specialist (Remote)

PURPOSE:

The Category Merch Specialist is responsible for executing specialized support tasks in a specific merchandising department. These functions are exercised across various systems and require timely input with a high level of accuracy. Will provide support tasks related to executing sales and merchandising strategies.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provides Vendor support as necessary such as sending samples or picking up product.
• Acts as a point of contact for customer requests or questions and is a liaison between other business planning groups.
• Information gathering, compiling, and spread sheet creation
• Reviews and approves vendor promotions.
• Provides as needed support to the Category Manager related to planning. Assists in gathering appropriate information, record keeping and filing related to planning process.
• Gathers and inputs information into the promotional planning systems and communicates that information to the appropriate retailers and/or regions.
• Processes exception orders and order entry in the system.
• Communicates pricing guidelines and recommendations to the appropriate retailers and regions. Ensures accurate input of pricing information and deals in conjunction with Category Manager.
• Responsible for accurate input of deals into the appropriate systems. Assists the Category Manager in accurate record keeping associated to contracts, deals and promotions.
• Develops, maintains, and reviews basic Excel templates and reports
• Responsible for keeping information related to assortment and shelf accurate in the appropriate systems.
• Performs other relevant job duties as required.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• 2-year degree or equivalent experience
• Education/ Certifications: (Required & Preferred)

Experience:

• Basic understanding of business planning and category management preferred.
• 0-2 years retail and/or supply chain merchandising experience with solid understanding of operations, systems, category management and merchandising
• Must have a strong attention to detail. Accurate input of information into multiple systems is critical to this position.
• Skills/ Abilities:
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills as well as interpersonal skills to develop and maintain effective business relationships.
• Strong planning and organizational skills will be required. Must have the ability to use basic Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Power Point, etc.) and use them to organize information.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast paced, matrixed environment. Must be able to work effectively within your own team while developing strong relationships with others such as other internal teams, vendors, and customers.

PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT/ DEMANDS:

• Most work is performed in a temperature-controlled office environment
• Incumbent may sit for long periods of time at desk or computer terminal
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.
• Stooping, bending, twisting, and reaching may be required in completion of job duties
• Incumbent may use calculators, keyboards, telephone and other office equipment in the course of normal workday
• Some travel may be required

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. UNFI is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive and respectful environment for all. M/F/Veteran/Disability. VEVRAA Federal Contractor.