CPG Assistant Category Manager

Ajinomoto
$85,000 - $95,000 a year
Ontario, California
Full time
4 days ago
Overview:
The Associate Category Manager will support growth initiatives on specific product lines within the AFNA portfolio of products by conducting analyses based on category, consumer, and competitive insights. He/She will collaborate closely with cross-functional partners to drive innovation and renovation projects from concept through post-commercialization business analysis. The Associate Category Manager will be responsible for leading the creation of packaging, sales assets, and shopper marketing programs to support in-market performance.

This role is based at our Ontario CA office. We work a hybrid schedule with an in-office requirement Tuesdays and Thursdays and the option to work remotely Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the CPG Assistant Category Manager are outlined below and include but are not limited to the following:
  • Evaluate business performance of key product lines and support the Category Manager/Director in portfolio strategy, product optimization, and growth initiatives.
  • Analyze syndicated data, internal sales, panel data, and primary research to assess performance and uncover opportunities.
  • Monitor market trends, competitive landscape, and evolving consumer needs to inform strategy and innovation.
  • Track and report on key performance metrics, including sales, share, and drivers of performance.
  • Lead cross-functional teams in the development and launch of new products, managing detailed project timelines to ensure milestone delivery.
  • Collaborate with Creative on packaging formats and design execution from concept to shelf.
  • Coordinate development of marketing assets and selling materials; assist in shopper marketing plans in partnership with Sales and in-house creative.
  • Participate in marketing research planning and execution to generate actionable insights.
  • Monitor new item performance and provide recommendations for optimization.
  • Manage product/category financials, including P&L, trade economics, and promotional impact.
  • Track and reconcile marketing spend against budget.
  • Prepare compelling presentations for senior leadership and Sales using data-driven storytelling.
  • Ensure compliance with all AFNA processes, standards, and policies.
Qualifications:
Qualifications include:
    • BA/BS degree required.
    • 2 years of experience in Brand Marketing, CPG, food & beverage, marketing research, or consulting.
    • Experience with syndicated data tools (e.g., Nielsen, IRI) and consumer insights.
    • Strong skills in Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
    • Proficient in data analysis and storytelling through presentations.
    • Excellent organizational and project management skills.
    • Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
    • Detail-oriented with the ability to navigate ambiguity.
    • Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
    • Proven ability to collaborate cross-functionally and inspire teams.
    • Experience developing creative briefs and sales materials.
    • Team player with a positive attitude and interest in continuous improvement.
    • Pay range $85,000 - $95,000 per year. Plus, annual bonus.
Apply
Other Job Recommendations:

Assistant General Manager

Smithfield Chicken-N-Bar-B-Q
Wake County, North Carolina
$63,000 - $65,000 a year
Smithfield's Chicken 'N Bar-B-Q is seeking top performers who desire to take their career and earnings to the next level!...
2 weeks ago

Assistant Manager

KFC
Kenner, Louisiana
$20,075 - $28,803 a year
Responsibilities of this position include ensuring customer satisfaction by providing quick, efficient service, quality products,...
1 week ago

Regional Category Manager- Industrial Equipment and Services

Thales
Austin County, Texas
$85,042 - $163,485 a year
  • Ensure that Category, Procurement and Stakeholder Team...
  • Ensure the Category adheres to the cost and competitiveness...
1 week ago

Category Manager, Hard Services

JLL
Chicago, Illinois
$132,120 - $161,880 a year
  • Develops and regularly maintains short, mid and long-term...
  • Forges key strategic relationships with strategic suppliers...
2 weeks ago

Instructional Assistant - Specialized Behavior

Community Consolidated School District 181
DuPage County, Illinois
Instructional Assistant - Specialized ECE, Oak Elementary School Applicant must hold one of the following licenses from the...
6 days ago

Senior Associate, Media Analytics - CPG Ads & Promotions

DoorDash
$78,200 - $115,000
  • Design and implement new data driven narratives for...
  • Engage with top CPG advertisers to plan campaign strategy,...
3 weeks ago