Product Category Specialist

The Product Category Specialist coordinates, develops, and evaluates product lines for the Product Management Division (PMD). This role includes purchasing food products and supplies as needed. The Specialist reports to the Manager and maintains daily contact with Sales personnel, Managers, Branch Managers, Manufacturers, and Vendors. Responsibilities also include product and inventory purchasing and expediting, supporting contract negotiations, and ensuring compliance with government regulations. Additionally, the specialist will develop an understanding of customer needs and educate them on company products and services to ensure the company achieves its ambitious sales growth aspirations.

Essential Job Functions:

• Procure products, components, and services according to established policies, controls, and Wismettac practices.
• Develop product pricing structures with the Product Category Assistant Manager/Manager, using current cost estimates, margins, and commission guidelines.
• Develop private brand products for the company.
• Review pricing strategies to ensure company profitability and market competitiveness. Perform periodic margin analyses.
• Utilize market information and analysis to recommend product offering adjustments to the Manager, based on market products and programs.
• Identify and select vendors for Wismettac commodities, meeting criteria such as price (negotiate, renegotiate), quantity, quality, and contract administration.
• Analyze price proposals, financial reports, and other data to determine reasonable prices and accept terms. Monitor and comply with applicable laws and regulations.
• Gather, monitor, and forecast marketing and sales trends for customers, competitors, and market conditions through sales shadowing. Manage company figures (sales and gross profit) for assigned categories.
• Prepare and submit reports to department managers, branch managers, and Wismettac affiliates, including those in Japan and China.
• Monitor shipments to ensure timely delivery and resolve undelivered goods issues.
• Write and distribute complex and technical bids or requests for proposals; receive and analyze bids, quotes, and proposals; and award contracts according to the company approval process.
• Track purchases, monitor vendor quality, and maintain a current vendor information database.
• Assist in managing the Product Category Assistant/office clerk on schedules and assignments.
• Collaborate with branches to increase market share through product education, sales skill training, and joint sales activities.
• Communicate new product and service opportunities, information, and field activity feedback to relevant company staff.
• Travel to customer and potential customer facilities to provide information and support.
• Assist in evaluating product performance against established objectives (sales forecasts, budgets, new accounts, gross margins) and take action to improve or develop products.
• Evaluate and analyze purchasing and price trends to forecast demand and minimize purchasing costs.
• Perform other duties assigned by PMD management.

Experience/ Training/ Education

• Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, economics, or related field.
• 3 years experience in the diverse food industry as a buyer, purchaser, or sales role
• Strong background in food purchasing and cost analysis.
• Experience utilizing a computer, including familiarity with Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, Outlook) and Oracle ERP software.

Knowledge, Skills, and Ability

• Comprehensive knowledge of business and management principles, including strategic planning, resource allocation, leadership, production methods, and team coordination.
• Proficiency in product and service promotion and sales techniques.
• Understanding of transportation principles and methods (air, rail, sea, road), including cost-benefit analysis.
• Knowledge of raw materials, production, quality control, cost optimization, and distribution.
• Proficiency in Microsoft applications (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint) and Oracle ERP software.
• Ability to multitask and manage concurrent projects.
• Business analysis experience with a focus on identifying and recommending process improvements.
• Strong active listening skills: able to comprehend, clarify, and respond appropriately.
• Logical reasoning and problem-solving skills: able to evaluate options and approaches.
• Effective communication skills.
• Advanced problem-solving and negotiation skills: able to identify complex issues, evaluate solutions, and conduct cost-benefit analyses.
• Ability to create bids, proposals, and reports; strong comprehension of spoken information.
• Ability to travel on short notice.
• Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.
• Demonstrated self-confidence, maturity, and a positive work ethic.
• Outgoing, courteous, and approachable demeanor.

Working Conditions: The Product Category Specialist in a comfortable office environment. They often work more than the standard 40 hours per week to meet procurement deadlines. This role may require lifting and carrying heavy sample products, up to 50 pounds, demanding some physical stamina. Travel is a requirement, including occasional visits to branch offices and client facilities. International travel may be required periodically.