Job Description
Category Strategy Manager The Category Strategy Manager is responsible for delivering customer, market, and consumer analytics and insights in support of Meijer and other assigned accounts. This role develops actionable recommendations that drive strategic goals and business results for Shankman and its clients. The Category Strategy Manager will lead analysis that builds a strong understanding of key categories and sub-categories, customer trends, shopper behavior, promotional effectiveness, and market dynamics. This individual will partner closely with Business Managers, clients, and retailers to support business reviews, presentations, assortment and distribution opportunities, promotional planning, and overall category strategy. This role may also provide day-to-day guidance, coaching, and oversight for one or more analysts or junior team members. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Partner directly with Business Managers on assigned Meijer and grocery clients, maintaining regular communication with internal sales teams, clients, and retailer contacts. Help drive customer and category strategy using insights from POS, syndicated, shopper, and market data. Support efforts to strengthen Shankman's category leadership position with assigned customers, including pursuit of Category Influencer opportunities where applicable. Conduct routine and seasonal category and client analyses and translate findings into clear, actionable recommendations. Prepare for and participate in customer meetings, line reviews, business reviews, and client presentations. Analyze trends at the assigned customer, across the broader market, and within comparable Shankman client business to identify risks and opportunities. Deliver timely post-period and post-season analysis summarizing results, key learnings, and recommendations. Seasonal and Ongoing Analysis Complete pre-re