SENIOR CATEGORY MANAGER at Y. Hata & Co., Limited

Honolulu, Hawaii, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

02 Jan, 26

Salary

123318.0

Posted On

04 Oct, 25

Experience

5 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Analytical Skills, Strategic Planning, Resource Management, Operational Oversight, Negotiation, Budgeting, Financial Management, Cost Control, Staff Development, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Problem-Solving, Critical Thinking, Effective Communication, Multitasking, Team Leadership

Industry

Food and Beverage Services

Description

For over 111 years, Y. Hata has proudly supported Hawaiʻi’s foodservice industry as a trusted, locally owned, family-run business. Our legacy is built not only on excellence, but on lasting relationships, tradition, and a deep commitment to our community. At Y. Hata, we’re dedicated to providing a purpose-driven workplace where every team member is embraced as part of our ʻOhana, and where dedication and heart are met with opportunity, support, and growth. As we continue to grow, our focus remains on cultivating a positive, engaging culture rooted in our Core Values — one where people feel valued, supported, and inspired to thrive. If you’re looking to make a meaningful impact and grow with purpose, we invite you to become part of the next chapter in our legacy of heart and excellence. Salary Range: $91,347 to $123,318 Position Summary Description: The Senior Category Manager develops overall enterprise category strategy and manages its execution for all branches. Directs and manages product assortment, landed cost, pricing recommendations, vendor relationships and reviews to improve Cost of Goods Savings (COGS). The Senior Category Manager is accountable for, and closely monitors, category performance. This role also incorporates promotional activities, and performance analysis into the on-going refinement of strategy development and implementation. Essential Duties Develops and manages the annual plan to drives priority categories and consistently monitors performance to ensure objectives are met. Develops short- and long-term category objectives aimed at driving the category to meet business growth targets. Oversees category performance on a branch level. Based on analysis, adjusts category strategies as required to drive overall category performance, including sales growth and improved vendor income. Benchmarks category performance with top industry competitors. Provides support to ensure success with all IMA initiatives. Drives Exclusive Brand (EB) penetration across the category by ensuring EB products are primary considerations in the development and implementation of category strategy. Identifies gaps in EB portfolio and measures customer and EB penetration of assigned category and benchmark against our industry. Establishes, maintains and grows relationships with suppliers and leads negotiation efforts. Identifies market, new product and category growth opportunities. Manages vendor communications and consistently provides vendor performance feedback and resolves complex issues. Works with suppliers on new, innovative products. Determines supplier selection. Establishes product specifications with vendors and monitor performance. Performance areas include volume commitments, fulfillment, promotional allowances, supplier service level, and the overall financial performance of the category as it pertains to the profit and loss statement. Manages overall category product assortment, to include the execution of assortment reviews, determining core SKU's, reviewing new vendor items, driving branch assortment harmonization, and reducing product duplication. Develops category level pricing strategies, continually reviewing pricing structure and implementing changes to maximize performance. Collaborates with purchasing and sales departments. Negotiates national vendor price deviation funding and determine category promotion strategy. Determines and offers pricing and promotional materials. Performs similar and related duties as assigned by the Executive Director of Supply Chain, Sales and Marketing. Uses the Company’s Mission/Vision Statements and Core Values as their guiding principles. Supervisory Responsibilities: This position oversees Category Manager II, Category Manager I, Category Associate, and Category Analyst roles. Qualifications Education / Experience Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent experience. Minimum of 6 years of related experience in Category Management or a closely related field, including leadership and management responsibilities. Prior experience in foodservice, retail grocery, or food manufacturing strongly preferred. Demonstrates strength in analytical skills, strategic planning, resource management, and operational oversight. Experienced in negotiating with Vendors Skilled in budgeting, financial management, and cost control. Experienced in developing staff through training, coaching, and mentoring. Applies data-driven decision-making, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Communicates effectively, multitasks in fast-paced environments, and leads complex team discussions. Days/Hours of Work: Regular schedule: Monday through Friday, during standard business hours. May require work beyond regular hours and occasional participation in company functions or events. Why You’ll Love Working at Y. Hata We believe our employees deserve more than just a paycheck. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support your well-being, growth, and success — both on and off the job. Rewarding Compensation – Competitive pay, merit increases, and flexible pay options. Your Health Matters – Robust medical, vision, and life insurance; EAP support. Time to Recharge – PTO, paid holidays, and floating holidays. More Than Just Perks – Paid parking, safety gear, uniforms, celebrations, discounts. Investing in You – Tuition assistance and development opportunities. Plan for Tomorrow – 401(k), Roth 401(k), and After-Tax 401(k) with company match. Y. Hata & Co., Limited is an equal opportunity employer. We believe in hiring a diverse workforce and people-first culture. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, including disability and veteran status, or any other basis covered under applicable law.

Responsibilities

The Senior Category Manager develops overall enterprise category strategy and manages its execution for all branches. This role includes overseeing category performance, managing vendor relationships, and driving category growth through strategic planning and analysis.