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Category Space Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Category Manager is responsible for developing and executing end-to-end category strategies ... Manage planogram development and space allocation in collaboration with Space Planning teams * Lead ...

Category Manager

Worcester, MA · On-site

$95 - $130/hr

## Category ManagerApplylocations: Worcester, MAtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todayjob ... Merchandising & Space Management*** Partner with merchandising and operations teams to develop ...

The Facility Space Planner will provide facility space planning, management, utilization, and ... Maintain and update facility use data, facility category codes, personnel assignments, square ...

New

$80 - $110/hr

Category Manager, Packaged Beverages Position Summary The Category Manager, Packaged Beverages is ... Merchandising & Space Management Partner with merchandising and operations teams to develop ...

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Category Space Manager information

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$36K

$93.4K

$134.5K

How much do category space manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for category space manager in the United States is $93,410.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a category space manager?

Category Space Managers are professionals responsible for optimizing the layout and allocation of product categories within retail stores. They analyze sales data, customer behavior, and market trends to determine the best placement and spacing of products, aiming to maximize sales and improve the shopping experience. Their role often involves collaborating with suppliers, using planogram software, and ensuring that inventory levels meet customer demand. By strategically organizing merchandise, Category Space Managers help retailers increase profitability and customer satisfaction.

How does a category space manager collaborate with merchandising and sales teams to optimize in-store product placement?

A Category Space Manager works closely with merchandising and sales teams to analyze sales data, shopper insights, and store layouts in order to maximize product visibility and drive sales. This collaboration often involves joint planning sessions, sharing planogram strategies, and reviewing the effectiveness of current displays. Regular communication ensures that product placement aligns with promotional campaigns and inventory levels, resulting in a cohesive approach to achieving sales targets and enhancing the customer experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a category space manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Category Space Manager, you need strong analytical skills, a background in retail merchandising or category management, and often a relevant degree in business or marketing. Familiarity with planogram software (such as JDA or Space Planning), data analysis tools, and retail management systems is typically required. Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills help you coordinate with cross-functional teams and negotiate with suppliers. These capabilities are vital for optimizing shelf space, driving sales growth, and ensuring a competitive product assortment in retail environments.

What is the difference between Category Space Manager vs Merchandising Coordinator?

AspectCategory Space ManagerMerchandising Coordinator
CredentialsExperience in retail space planning, possibly certifications in retail managementRelevant retail or marketing experience, often with a degree in business or marketing
Work EnvironmentRetail stores, corporate offices, space planning teamsRetail stores, merchandising departments, marketing teams
Industry UsageCommonly used in retail chains, supermarkets, and department storesUsed across retail, fashion, and consumer goods sectors

The Category Space Manager focuses on optimizing retail space and product placement, while the Merchandising Coordinator handles product displays and promotional setups. Both roles support retail sales but differ in scope and responsibilities.

More about Category Space Manager jobs

What cities are hiring for Category Space Manager jobs?

Cities with the most Category Space Manager job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Category Space jobs?

The most popular types of Category Space jobs are:

What states have the most Category Space Manager jobs?

States with the most job openings for Category Space Manager jobs include:

Infographic showing various Category Space Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,410 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

The Category Manager is responsible for developing and executing end-to-end category strategies across assigned grocery product lines. This role serves as the key business owner for their categories, driving profitable growth through data-driven insights, strong vendor partnerships, and a deep understanding of shopper behavior. The ideal candidate brings proven grocery retail or CPG experience and excels at translating market intelligence into actionable, results-oriented plans.


Category Strategy & Planning

  • Develop and own multi-year category business plans aligned with overall merchandising strategy and financial objectives
  • Define category roles, segmentation, and performance targets in partnership with senior leadership
  • Conduct regular category reviews and present findings and recommendations to cross-functional stakeholders

Assortment & Space Management

  • Optimize SKU assortment to drive sales, margin, and shopper satisfaction using Nielsen, IRI, or Circana data
  • Manage planogram development and space allocation in collaboration with Space Planning teams
  • Lead new item evaluations, line reviews, and seasonal reset planning

Vendor & Supplier Management

  • Negotiate pricing, trade terms, promotional programs, and annual vendor agreements
  • Serve as primary point of contact for vendor partners; conduct joint business planning (JBP) sessions
  • Manage vendor performance scorecards and hold partners accountable to agreed commitments

Pricing & Promotions

  • Set and maintain everyday pricing strategies that balance competitiveness with margin goals
  • Build and manage promotional calendars, evaluating ROI and optimizing trade spend effectiveness
  • Partner with Marketing to develop compelling shopper-facing promotions and in-store activations

Analytics & Insights

  • Analyze POS, loyalty, and syndicated data to identify category trends, gaps, and opportunities
  • Monitor competitive landscape, pricing, and assortment shifts; translate findings into actionable strategies
  • Track and report category KPIs including sales, gross margin, inventory turns, and market share

Required

  • 5+ years of experience in category management, merchandising, or buying within grocery retail or CPG
  • Demonstrated proficiency with syndicated data platforms (Nielsen / Circana / IRI) and POS analytics tools
  • Proven track record of delivering category sales and margin growth in a retail or wholesale environment
  • Strong negotiation skills with experience managing supplier relationships and trade funding
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and/or category management software (e.g., JDA, Blue Yonder, Apollo)
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills; ability to influence at all levels of the organization
  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, or a related field

Preferred

  • Experience with private label / own-brand development within a grocery category
  • Familiarity with loyalty and shopper marketing programs (e.g., 84.51°, Dunnhumby)
  • Knowledge of CPFR (Collaborative Planning, Forecasting & Replenishment) practices
  • Experience in a direct-to-consumer or omnichannel grocery environment
  • MBA or equivalent advanced degree