Senior Manager, Category Management

About Saputo

Saputo Inc. is a distinguished top 10 global dairy processor, dedicated to delivering high-quality products, investing in its workforce, and supporting global communities. With a robust presence in the U.S. as one of the leading cheese producers, Saputo offers well-established brands and a strong foothold in foodservice partnerships.

Role Overview and Responsibilities

The Senior Manager of Category Management oversees a designated product/category portfolio. This role requires cross-functional collaboration across organizational levels to develop and execute strategies that enhance profitability and accelerate business growth. Key accountabilities include managing the product lifecycle from introduction to rationalization, handling category P&L and budgets, and leveraging market trends and internal strengths to shape category strategies.

• Drive strategic growth and deliver budgeted EBITDA for assigned categories.
• Oversee category budget and profit & loss management.
• Manage product portfolio lifecycle: introduction, commercialization, renovation, and rationalization.
• Analyze external market factors such as consumer trends, customer needs, competitor moves, and input costs to inform strategies.
• Serve as a subject matter expert on assigned categories by compiling and acting upon relevant market insights.
• Formulate and implement strategies to strengthen competitive advantage and business health.
• Develop and present plans at various organizational levels, influencing leadership and cross-functional teams.
• Prioritize initiatives including product selection and pricing decisions.
• Coordinate execution plans for key initiatives in the short to medium term.
• Navigate organizational challenges using deep category knowledge and insights.
• Collaborate closely with Sales, Marketing, R&D, and Operations to ensure effective commercialization of products on schedule and within budget.
• Engage in contract discussions in partnership with the Category Director and internal teams to secure favorable outcomes.
• Enhance team capabilities, processes, and tools across functional groups.

Preferred Qualifications and Experience

• Six to ten or more years in commercially focused roles within the consumer-packaged goods sector.
• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, related fields, or equivalent professional experience; MBA preferred.
• Proven experience in developing strategic business plans, category management, and business case formulation.
• Demonstrated ability in P&L management, product lifecycle oversight, and budget responsibility.
• Exceptional communication and facilitation skills capable of leading cross-functional teams.
• Background in brand or product management with understanding of consumer and category marketing insights.
• Strong presentation and influencing capabilities.
• Keen on strategic and analytical tasks with meticulous project management skills.
• Adept at translating business vision and market opportunities into actionable go-to-market plans.
• Ability to interpret marketplace insights and competitive activities into strategic business actions.
• Experience utilizing consumer and shopper insights (e.g., IRI, Technomic) to drive commercial success.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and initiatives concurrently.
• Willingness to travel approximately 25% of the time.

Employee Benefits and Work Environment

• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• Competitive compensation and benefits to support employees and their families.
• Engagement in community-oriented activities leveraging Saputo’s brand presence.

Additional Details

• Compensation range: $107,305 to $140,895 annually, dependent on experience, education, skills, and training.
• Work schedule combines four days in the office with one remote day weekly.
• Saputo is committed to accessibility and equal opportunity employment, promoting diversity and inclusion across its workforce.

Accessibility and Equal Employment Opportunity

Saputo Cheese USA Inc. prioritizes an inclusive work environment and supports applicants requiring accommodations during the hiring process. The company is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and does not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or other protected categories.