Job Description

Supports 1-2 Category Merchants and/or Sourcing leaders in planning and executing category strategy, assortment planning and product development, pricing and promotions, financial analysis, cost negotiations and quality standards and compliance processes. Responsible for financial reporting and analysis in joint business performance accountability with Category Merchants and/or Sourcing leaders. Collaborates and works closely with Inventory Planning and Logistics, Merchandise Presentation and Execution, Operations, Foragers, Quality Standards and Quality Assurance, Enterprise Analytics, Marketing, and our Supplier and Distributor partners to effectively deliver on category goals and strategies.

Additional Information:
This role will observe the 3-day hybrid office model and be based in Austin, TX. Relocation assistance may be provided.

Responsibilities

• Supports and collaborates with stakeholders on achieving category tasks and goals.
• Supports category assortment planning- including supplier line reviews, assortment analysis, stakeholder collaboration, item planning and forecasting.
• With guidance, engages with support team and other stakeholders to translate assortment plans into merchandising and/or product development plans. Supports relevant project execution or process improvement.
• Supports Category Merchant or Sourcing Leader in weekly, monthly and quarterly financial and root cause analysis.
• Performs and/or assists with data analysis, data management and reporting.
• Develops and nurtures key strategic partnerships and strong working knowledge of the supplier and industry landscape.
• Plans and executes logistics for key events including supplier meetings.
• Maintains list of supplier contacts and supports supplier communication as needed.
• Maintains and updates appropriate system(s) content and helps with other documentation and reporting as assigned.
• Facilitates information sharing between all applicable stakeholders.
• Assists with sample testing and trial, and sample room maintenance.
• Understands customer trends and stays focused on competitive landscape utilizing internal and external resources.
• Communicates, represents, and upholds Whole Foods Market core values and leadership principles to all stakeholders.
• Provides accurate and complete information in reports and communications.
• Supports leadership and works closely with team leaders on assigned work.
• Proactively seeks guidance and support as required.
• Accountable for positively impacting team collaboration and group effectiveness.
• Willing to travel domestically up to 10% of the time.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

• Detail-oriented with strong planning and execution skills.
• Team player with a positive attitude and ability to manage ambiguity.
• Self-motivated and take initiative to ensure deadlines are met.
• Ability to work independently and in a group.
• Ability to deal effectively and comfortably with various stakeholders.
• Familiarity with retail software solutions.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Passion for Organics, Fair Trade, Quality Standards and the Natural Foods industry.
• Strong skills utilizing Microsoft Office applications- specifically Excel.
• Familiar with category management and/or Private Label product lifecycle concepts, practices and procedures.
• Demonstrates intellectual and analytical curiosity.
• Able to read financial reports, spot business trends and assess underlying drivers of results.
• Familiar with financial goals and guidelines.
• Demonstrates a desire for continuous learning and sharpening this skill.
• Excellent communication skills, including written, verbal and listening.
• Understands necessity of tailoring communication to meet audience needs.

Education & Experience

• BA/BS degree and 2-4 years’ relevant experience OR equivalent combination of education and relevant experience preferred.

At Whole Foods Market, we provide a fair and equal employment opportunity for all Team Members and candidates regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, marital status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic. Whole Foods Market hires and promotes individuals solely based on qualifications for the position to be filled and business needs.

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