Seafood Category Specialist

Overview and Responsibilities

The Seafood Category Specialist will be responsible for planning and executing strategies to drive the growth and profitability of the seafood product segment. This role requires managing product assortments customized for different sales channels, identifying opportunities for expanding the range, and introducing innovations to meet customer needs.

The specialist will continuously monitor market trends, customer demand, and competitors to maintain a competitive advantage. Using sales analytics and key performance indicators, they will optimize product assortment, pricing structures, and promotional campaigns. These insights will be crucial for accurate forecasting, budgeting, and commercial planning.

Management of supplier relationships is a critical part of this position. The role involves leading negotiations, performing supplier evaluations, controlling costs, and nurturing strong collaborations with local and international seafood vendors. It also ensures that suppliers meet quality, food safety, and sustainability standards set by the company.

The role includes close coordination with various internal teams such as Procurement, Logistics, Operations, Sales, and Merchandising to guarantee smooth implementation of category plans. Supporting the sales division with detailed product knowledge and pricing advice, as well as managing promotional and marketing activities, will help enhance category visibility and sales performance.

Maintaining exceptional product quality, ensuring the integrity of cold-chain logistics, complying with regulatory requirements, and advocating responsible sourcing and sustainable seafood practices are essential to this role.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Food Science, or related disciplines.
• At least 3 years of experience in category management, ideally within seafood or fresh food sectors.
• Background in retail, foodservice, wholesale, or fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) environments.
• Expertise in category planning and profit & loss management.
• Proficient analysis of sales, margins, and pricing.
• Experience in supplier negotiations and contract management.
• Skills in demand forecasting and inventory control.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and ERP software such as SAP.
• Understanding of seafood supply chains, cold-chain logistics, and food safety regulations.