Category Manager - Ingredients

Location: Marshfield, WI (onsite)

Job Type: Full-Time

Salary: $58,000-$73,000

Benefits: Comprehensive benefits, company-matched 401(k), paid time off, competitive compensation, and much more!

About Us:

Nelson-Jameson is a trusted leader in the food manufacturing industry, providing high-quality products and innovative solutions since 1947. We specialize in food processing products and services that help organizations maintain the highest standards in quality, safety, and compliance. As a family-owned business, we value accountability, teamwork, and growth-both for our employees and the company.

We're proud of our close-knit, family-oriented culture, where everyone has a voice and the opportunity to grow. From wellness programs to career development, we prioritize both employee well-being and professional success. If youre looking for a rewarding career with a trusted, optimistic team, we invite you to apply and join us at Nelson-Jameson!

Job Summary:

We're seeking a results-oriented Category Manager for a product category within our Ingredients portfolio. This role manages a diverse portfolio of products as a part of food processing. This role will oversee products that could include brined jalapenos, dried spices, food grade salt, and various other flavor enhancing ingredients.

As a Category Manager, you'll work directly with vendors and help drive profitability through strategic marketing and sales efforts. You'll play a key role in analyzing sales performance, developing pricing strategies, and collaborating across departments to ensure product success. This is an exciting opportunity to work with a talented team, build strong vendor relationships, and drive impactful marketing initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and optimize an assigned product portfolio, researching and sourcing new vendors and products to increase sales and profitability.
• Develop strong, strategic relationships with vendors to enhance product offerings and market performance.
• Negotiate pricing and terms with vendors to ensure competitive advantage and maximize profitability.
• Establish, maintain, and communicate standard pricing, adjusting as necessary to improve margins.
• Collaborate with Purchasing to ensure proper inventory levels for the product portfolio.
• Analyze sales data to allocate resources, improve product performance, and identify trends or potential issues.
• Develop and execute marketing strategies for the product portfolio, working closely with the Marketing Department and other stakeholders.
• Measure and report on the effectiveness of marketing efforts, including ROI analysis.
• Ensure regulatory compliance by maintaining accurate quality documentation in coordination with the Regulatory Team.
• Collaborate with the Sales Team to define customer needs through site visits, samples, and trial events.
• Work with vendors to target key accounts, develop pricing programs, and encourage collaboration with sales representatives.
• Direct the duties of the Product Administrator for your assigned product line.
• Perform additional duties as needed to support business objectives.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Required:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.

• Experience: 2+ years of experience in distribution, sales, or marketing.

• Strong knowledge of industry products and customer needs.

• Willingness & ability to travel occasionally for trade shows, training, or customer interaction.

• Preferred:

• Post-secondary education or coursework in business, marketing, sales, or a related field.

• Experience in the food processing industry is a plus.

Why Nelson-Jameson?

At Nelson-Jameson, we offer more than just a job; we provide an opportunity to grow and succeed within a family-owned company that values innovation, collaboration, and hard work. You'll be part of a trusted industry leader, working alongside passionate professionals who are dedicated to making a difference.

As a golden rule company, we strive to maintain a culture of honesty, integrity, and kindness. Our organization is committed to operating ethically and respecting people, our community, and the environment. With us, you'll become part of a hard-working team that takes pride in providing safe, high-quality food to communities around the world.

With Nelson-Jameson, you'll receive:

• Comprehensive Health Benefits with your choice of benefits to match your unique needs

• 401(k) with company match

• Competitive Compensation:

• Starting Salary Range: $58,000-$73,000 annually

• Annual Discretionary Bonus

• Annual Merit Increases

• Paid time off at time of hire

• Annual allowance for company branded clothing

• Annual Wellness Stipend & other wellness programs

• Flexibility to work from home on an occasional basis

• And much more!

How to Apply:

If you're ready to drive your career forward with a company that values hard work, safety, and excellent customer service, apply now on our career site!

Nelson-Jameson, Inc. and NEXT Logistics, LLC. are Equal Opportunity Employers. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourage applicants from all backgrounds, including but not limited to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, and veteran status.