Category Manager

Peetniks are passionate and authentic, learners and doers, committed to the pursuit of better. The only thing we love more than coffee is our people. The Category Manager (Contractor) will be responsible for creating and managing customer-specific category management deliverables for both the Sales Team and directly to Customer Buyers. There is specific emphasis on actionable category and shopper insights that drive the business for both our customers and Peet's Coffee. The position is expected to be the go-to category management expert, to include in-depth category, consumer and shopper expertise. Key responsibilities include customer development, retail execution, insight activation and cross-functional collaboration. Importantly, this position requires both data and business savvy, as well as effective communication and problem-solving skills in order to provide consultative category management to both internal and external customers alike. This role is expected to present to and influence the customer.This is a full-time, contract position.Duration: Jan–May 29th, 2026 (with potential extension)Focus: Category Reviews, Post-Review Analytics, POG/Shelf Optimization, Retail Transition SupportLocation: RemoteHourly: $125/hr. - $165/hr.What You Will DoRepresent the Peet's portfolio, to include: Peet's premium bags, k-cups and capsules, Caribou premium bags, Mighty Leaf tea, Stumptown bags, and Intelligentsia bags and k-cups.Responsibilities across Kroger GO, Kroger divisions as well as some other regional grocery, mass, military or drug accounts.Translate category and shopper insights into customer implications and opportunitiesAct as category advisor identifying ideas for total category growthGather and share competitive intelligence information and implicationsProvide Merchandising, Assortment, Pricing and Shelving insights and recommendationsEnsure recommendations adhere to shelving and assortment principlesSupport delivery of formal category reviews to the customer, identifying current state, business drivers and opportunities for growthLead in the assessment of shelf layout and productivity, develop shelving recommendations to optimize category performance, manage schematic development and distributionCreate and deliver fact-based presentations that compel customer(s) to take action against opportunities to improve their performance with Peet's solutionsActively participate in the improvement of retail MAPS (Merchandising, Assortment, Pricing and Shelving) executionShare best practices and successful retail execution examples such that others can adopt and replicate with their customersWho You AreMust command: leadership, strong communication skills, collaboration, attention to detail, initiative and a results oriented, go get it attitude2-3 years of related consumer packaged goods work experience requiredAC Nielsen/IRI expertiseApollo, JDA, Gladson8451, EYC knowledge a plusHighly proficient in Excel, Word and Power PointWell organized and able to handle multiple projectsPresentation skills a must – building and deliveringThis description outlines the role's essential functions but may evolve with business needs.What We Offer:We're proud to offer a comprehensive package for full-time employees, including but not limited to: • Recharge Time – Paid vacation, holidays, and sick days.• Health & Wellness – Medical, dental, and vision coverage.• Future You – 401(k) plan with generous match program to help you save.• Peace of Mind – Life insurance, disability, and options for HSAs and FSAs.• Everyday Perks – Free coffee, fresh baked goods, and discounts.• Growth & Support – Career development and an Employee AssistanceProgram when you need it.The target annual base salary range for this position is $125/hourly – $165/hourly . The actual base salary offered will depend on a variety of factors, including the applicant's qualifications, years of relevant experience, specific and unique skills, level of education, certifications or licenses, other legitimate non-discriminatory business factors, and the geographic location of the role. In addition to base pay, individuals in this position may also be eligible to earn bonuses. Additional InformationAt Peet's, we believe in creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome qualified applicants of all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status, disability, genetic information, uniform service, veteran status, or any other category protected under federal, state, or local laws. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with all federal, state, and local ordinances.Peet's is also committed to providing reasonable accommodation to job applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process. If you need assistance or accommodation, please contact