Director of Category Management - Walmart/Sam's
Bentonville, AR, US, 72712
Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.
Summary
We’re seeking a strategic and insights-driven Category Management Leader to own category performance and growth across our Walmart and Sam’s Club businesses. This role is responsible for turning data into action—leveraging platforms like Walmart’s Scintilla, Retail Link, and syndicated data—to drive assortment, shelf, pricing, and promotional strategies.
You’ll be the key point of influence between Sales, Marketing, and the Walmart/Sam’s teams, ensuring our brand wins both in-store and online.
This person will ideally sit near Bentonville, AR but open to remote for the right candidate.
Principal and Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Category Strategy & Execution
- Lead category vision and execution for Walmart and Sam’s Club in alignment with company growth goals.
- Develop and present category reviews, joint business plans (JBP), and modular strategies that deliver mutual growth.
- Translate macro and micro trends into actionable strategies for assortment, pricing, and shelf placement.
Insights & Analytics
- Use Walmart Scintilla to extract first-party shopper insights:
- Identify purchase patterns, switching behavior, and trip missions
- Track brand leakage and promotional impact across baskets
- Integrate Scintilla with Retail Link, IRI and internal data for 360° decision-making.
- Monitor competitor activity and category shifts to inform proactive recommendations.
Collaboration & Influence
- Serve as the internal voice of the retailer—advocating for category-centric solutions with Sales, Marketing, R&D, and Supply Chain.
- Support Sales Directors with data-driven selling stories and persuasive retailer presentations.
Planogram & Modular Excellence
- Own planogram strategy and influence shelf execution through space and assortment analytics.
- Collaborate with Walmart Replenishment and Modular Planning teams to optimize inventory flow and shelf productivity.
People Management and Talent Development
- Mentor and develop category management team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth.
- Provide clear direction, performance feedback, and coaching to direct reports, ensuring alignment with company objectives.
- Identify training needs and facilitate professional development opportunities to enhance team capabilities.
Minimum Education and Experience
10+ years of experience in Category Management, Shopper Insights, or Sales Strategy within CPG.
The ideal candidate must also have:
- Proven success managing Walmart and/or Sam’s Club categories.
- Expertise in Walmart Scintilla, Retail Link, and space planning tools (e.g., JDA, Spaceman).
- Proficiency in Syndicated Data Platforms such as Circana/Nielsen.
- Strong analytical skills—comfortable with large data sets, shopper insights, and building actionable recommendations.
- Exceptional communication and presentation skills; confident engaging with both internal leaders and retail buyers.
- Highly collaborative, curious, and business-minded.
Experience Preferred
- Experience in fresh or perishable categories, particularly meat/poultry.
- Exposure to eCommerce data platforms (e.g., Walmart Luminate, Sam’s Club MAP).
- Data visualization skills (Power BI, Tableau).
Environmental Factors and Physical Requirements
This position is remote based with customer travel as needed.
Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Nearest Major Market: Fayetteville