Job description:
The Category Specialist is responsible for driving growth, profitability, and operational excellence of assigned categories (Organic, Fresh Produce, Staples, Dairy) through effective assortment planning, vendor management, pricing, inventory control, and in-store execution while ensuring quality and compliance with organic standards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Execute category plans in line with overall business objectives.
- Support sales growth through accurate SKU planning and right assortment management.
- Manage daily coordination with organic farmers, suppliers, and dairy partners.
- Support new product launches, seasonal assortments, and range rationalization.
- Implement pricing updates, promotions, offers, and category bundles.
- Monitor stock levels and support demand forecasting to avoid stock-outs and expiries.
- Track sales, margin, wastage, and inventory KPIs and prepare periodic MIS.
- Ensure correct shelf placement, planograms, signage, and hygiene standards in stores.
- Support audits and ensure compliance with food safety, FSSAI, and organic standards.
Qualifications:
- Graduate/Postgraduate in Business, Retail Management, Agriculture, Food Technology, or related field.
- 26 years of experience in Category Management / Buying / Merchandising.
- Prior experience in Organic, Fresh, Staples, or Dairy categories preferred.
- Experience in retail FMCG / food retail / modern trade is mandatory.
Skills & Competencies:
- Strong analytical and data interpretation skills
- Vendor negotiation and relationship management
- Understanding of organic food standards and freshness handling
- Proficiency in ERP systems (Gofrugal preferred) and MS Excel
- Strong communication and coordination skills
Why Join Us
- Opportunity to work with India's fast-growing organic & natural food brand.
- Direct impact on farmer sourcing, sustainability, and consumer health.
- Exposure to end-to-end category ownership.
