Division Merchandising Manager

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Position Summary:

The Division Merchandising Manager executes product merchandising activities within the assigned division that support goals for all categories of products.  In alignment with the Regional Merchandising Manager, collaborates and communicates with key stakeholders on the NA category teams, marketing teams, sales teams and with vendors to execute strategies to achieve sales, margin, and brand goals.

Communicates and supports the strategic market share growth and product positioning of the division by aligning our Vendor / Broker partner network to direct selling and educational opportunities that support the best interest of the customers we serve.  This role serves as the primary point of contact for the regional vendor/broker community and is responsible to develop, prioritize, and execute best in class partnership strategies that align with the company’s long range plan and divisional goals.

What you will do:

• Facilitates the flow of all product, category, brand and supplier related information and communication between the Regional Merchandising Team and the Divisional Sales and Marketing Teams.
• Collaborates with the Regional Merchandising Team to maintain appropriate product mix, attain sales, and meet margin goals.
• Contributes to the planning and execution of product training and development for the Customer Development Specialist (CDS),  through collaboration with the Regional Merchandising team, Customer Support Manager, Specialist teams, Divisional trainer, Home Office Training team, and divisional suppliers/broker partners.
• Plans and assists in the personal and professional development of the Product Specialists as it relates to product and supplier and product  knowledge.
• Serves as the primary communication point for the local broker and supplier community.
• Drives planning and execution of key strategies and initiatives with internal teams and with the local supplier and broker community in support of Regional Merchandising and Divisional goals and objectives.
• Collaborates on the development, monitoring, and execution of local vendors and brokers marketing plans.
• Supports the  Campaign and Events Specialist with product/vendor related information and strategies specific to the  planning and execution of  industry, sales and marketing events, divisional sales and marketing meetings, marketing campaigns, and food shows that align with the long range plan and divisional goals.
• Understands, requests, and analyzes pertinent reports and resources to drive effective decision-making to provide product expertise.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• When you will work: Monday through Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm.
• Hybrid Work Schedule: 4 days in office, 1 day from home.

What you'll bring to the table:

• At least 3 years of  product / category knowledge or previous marketing experience
• High School Diploma required.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing or a related field preferred.
• Bi-Lingual in English & French preferred.
• Excellent customer service, mentoring, interpersonal and communication skills.
• Must be able to develop, refine, communicate, and implement plans and to set and define goals.
• Must maintain knowledge of industry trends and be able to provide training on the technical aspects of commercial or non-commercial segments.
• Must have industry and segment knowledge and be able to analyze and interpret data.
• Must have good time management, administration, and organizational skills.
• Must be able to build relationships, network, influence and link resources to plan and execute business practices.
• Must have the ability to multi-task and be able to work exceptional hours including evenings and weekends.
• Be willing to take on new responsibilities with a strong desire to succeed.
• Develops solutions to complex problems that require the regular use of ingenuity and innovation.  Ensures solutions are consistent with organization objectives.
• BE PART OF AN AMAZING CULTURE WHERE WHAT MATTERS TO YOU, MATTERS TO US!
• Gordon Food Service values our customers and understands that their success is largely dependent upon their workforce. To demonstrate our commitment to our partnership, we will require any candidate who works for a Gordon Food Service customer to provide a letter of support from their management if they are selected for the interview process.
• Equal Employment Opportunity is a matter of policy at Gordon Food Service, Inc. and we are committed to a work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity.
• All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with disability.  If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process due to a disability, please submit your request to talent@gfs.com and use the words “Accommodation Request” in your subject line.
• All Gordon Food Service locations are tobacco-free.
• Gordon Food Service is a drug-free workplace and conducts pre-employment drug tests.