Summary Lidl US is searching for the next Category Manager (Buyer) to join our Food Assortment Purchasing team! The Category Manager has full ownership of a product range within their given category. This role is responsible for the product quality, costing, and supplier management of their product range. Please note: This position requires reporting to our Corporate Headquarters in Arlington, VA, five days a week. What You'll Do * Effectively manage projects and project timelines while working independently and collaboratively to achieve short, medium, and long-term departmental visions * Evaluate industry best practices and monitor developments and innovations within the retail sector particular to their business that may be beneficial to the daily operations of the organization * Analyze and evaluate projects and develop ideas and/or practical solutions for streamlining business processes * Lead and coordinate purchasing projects and negotiations * Prepare and negotiate with national suppliers in agreement with the line manager, and where applicable, International Purchasing * In collaboration with Purchasing Leadership, set retail pricing strategy for all items negotiated * Build promotional activity programs with suppliers for weekly leaflet promotions * Preparing all documents required for supplier contracts, item set up, and master data maintenance * Full ownership of given product range including developing category strategy, supplier management, product development, negotiation, and category management * Analyze trends in the market with a view to create strong commercial opportunities * Prepare portfolio reports and propose cost saving initiatives for your product range * Manage commercial data such as turnover, margin, and investment in price reductions * Conduct annual assortment analyses reviewing the market and aligning on key categorical changes (WGA) while leveraging Category Management and relevant industry data * Identify, test, and recommend new products in coordination with Purchasing Leadership * Ensure constant communication and consultation with suppliers * Ensure constant communication with International Office, Supply Chain, and Logistics teams to resolve problems * Approve supplier contracts * Train or guide the work of other team members on occasion * Perform other duties as assigned What You'll Need Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities * Excellent verbal and written communication skills * Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills * Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail * Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills * Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate * Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software * Advanced knowledge in category management and/or product development * Ability to effectively manage negotiations and conduct category management Required Education, Certifications/ Licenses, Related Experience * Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Merchandising or related field * 3-5 years of experience in a related field in Purchasing/Category management, and/or Produce * In lieu of degree, 5+ years of experience in related field will meet the education and related experience requirements listed above Physical Job Requirements * Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer * Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times Travel Requirements * This position commutes between stores, regional offices and/or distribution centers requiring overnight domestic travel less than 25% of the time What You'll Receive At Lidl, we know that in order for our people to do their best, they must be at their best. That's why as a company, we offer one of the most generous benefits packages in the industry. All our Lidl employees are eligible to receive the following benefits: * Medical | Dental | Vision coverage * Paid Holiday & Paid Time Off (PTO) * 401k Plan (+ 5% company match and 2 year vesting schedule) * And so much more, visit our benefits page for more details and the latest updates In addition to the great benefits above, our Full-Time employees receive these additional benefits: Group Term Life& AD&D Insurance, Short & Long-Term Disability Insurance, Voluntary Critical Illness and/or Accident Insurance, Parental Leave - 100% pay for birth mothers and non-birth parents, Additional Paid Time-Off & Sick Time. #LI-MS1