Key Responsibilities:

Category Strategy & Performance:

- Develop and execute category strategies to maximize revenue, margin, and market share in gourmet food segments.

- Analyze market trends, consumer behavior, and competitive landscapes to identify growth opportunities.

- Define pricing architecture, promotional plans, and product lifecycle management (e.g., seasonal launches, discontinuations).

Assortment Planning & Product Curation:

- Lead assortment planning to ensure a balanced mix of hero products, niche offerings, and emerging trends.

- Collaborate with suppliers, chefs, and R&D to source and develop exclusive, high-margin products.

- Optimize SKU productivity through data-driven range reviews and space allocation strategies.

Merchandising & Visual Strategy:

- Oversee in-store and online merchandising to create an aspirational, cohesive brand experience.

- Partner with retail teams to design planograms, shelf layouts, and displays that drive impulse purchases.

- Ensure packaging and branding align with premium positioning and storytelling (e.g., sustainability, provenance).

Supplier & Inventory Management:

- Negotiate with gourmet suppliers, artisans, and distributors to secure competitive terms and exclusivity.

- Monitor inventory levels, turnover, and supply chain efficiency to reduce waste and stockouts.

- Uphold strict quality standards and ethical sourcing practices.

Cross-Functional Leadership:

- Work closely with Marketing to align campaigns, storytelling, and promotions with category priorities.

- Guide e-commerce teams on digital merchandising, product taxonomy, and online customer journeys.

- Present category performance insights to senior leadership with actionable recommendations.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

- Experience: 8+ years in category management, merchandising, or retail buying, preferably in gourmet food, luxury groceries, or specialty retail.

- Analytical Acumen: Proficiency in retail analytics (e.g., Nielsen, IRI, Excel, Power BI) to interpret sales data and shopper insights.

- Creative Flair: Strong visual merchandising sense with an eye for premium product presentation.

- Negotiation & Influence: Proven ability to manage supplier relationships and internal stakeholders.

- Leadership: Experience leading teams and collaborating with marketing, sales, and supply chain.

- Education: Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or related field (MBA preferred).

- Passion for Food: Deep appreciation for gourmet products, culinary trends, and artisan craftsmanship.

Why Join Us?

- Strategic Exposure: Collaborate closely with the Founder on key business initiatives, from new store launches to digital innovation.

- Growth Opportunity: Be at the forefront of a fast-growing gourmet retail brand, shaping its trajectory in the premium food market.

- Dynamic Environment: Experience a high-energy, innovative workspace where your ideas and contributions directly impact business outcomes

- Together, Let's Build Something Extraordinary

- At Foodstories, we're not just building a brand; we're creating a movement-a celebration of food that enriches lives and connects communities. Join us in this exciting journey as we bring the finest curation of products and experiences to life and expand into new horizons.