Manager, Meat, Deli and Seafood

A division of Pattison Food Group, Associated Grocers is the leading grocery wholesaler company in Western Canada serving independent retail locations in British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan out of several distribution centers located in two provinces.

**We have an exciting opportunity for a full-time Manager, Meat, Deli and Seafood to join our team in Calgary, Alberta.**

Reporting to the Senior Manager, Independent Marketing and Advertising, you will lead strategic initiatives to drive category growth and profitability across independent grocery stores by combining marketing expertise with procurement oversight. This role will manage all product marketing, services, and advertising programs supplied by AG to independent customers, develop and implement merchandising and advertising plans for the Meat, Deli & Seafood categories, and ensures alignment across the AG banner and independent programs. The role will also collaborate with merchandising, store operations, vendor partners, and internal teams to deliver compelling campaigns, optimize product selection, secure competitive pricing, and maintain strong vendor and customer relationships.

**Primary Responsibilities**:

- Oversee recruitment, training, and development of the Meat, Deli & Seafood team.
- Manage and coordinate merchandising and advertising plans across AG banner and independent programs.
- Lead planning and execution of promotional campaigns, including weekly flyers, signage, and digital content.
- Collaborate with store teams and vendors to identify trends, seasonal opportunities, and customer preferences.
- Ensure consistent brand messaging and visual presentation across all marketing materials and store formats.
- Analyze weekly sales results and marketing strategies; recommend adjustments to optimize performance.
- Manage financial budgets for margins, inside margins, and marketing programs.
- Oversee procurement activities including vendor negotiations, product selection, and cost management.
- Monitor supplier performance and ensure compliance with quality, safety, and sustainability standards.
- Coordinate vendor performance reviews to meet mutual budgeted objectives.
- Maintain strong vendor and customer relationships aligned with company goals and policies.
- Support development of new programs that highlight product quality, freshness, and value.
- Provide leadership and guidance to junior staff and cross-functional teams involved in campaign execution.
- Oversee special promotions and merchandising programs, including item selection, pricing, themes, and deals.

**Required Skills and Requirements**:

- Post-secondary education in Marketing, Business, or a related field; specialization in Food Marketing or Supply Chain Management is an asset.
- Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in retail marketing or category management, with at least 2-3 years in a leadership role.
- Experience in procurement or vendor management within the food retail sector is an asset.
- Experience as a Journeyman meat cutter is an asset.
- Strong understanding of fresh food retail, including meat, deli, and seafood operations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Experience in campaign planning, sales analysis, and vendor collaboration.

**Attributes**:

- A strategic thinker with a passion for fresh food and customer experience.
- Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to influence cross-functional teams.
- Creative and analytical mindset with the ability to translate insights into actionable marketing and procurement plans.
- Highly organized and capable of managing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
- Skilled negotiator with a focus on building strong supplier relationships and securing value for stores.

**Job Types**: Full-time, Permanent

Expected hours: 40 per week

**Benefits**:

- Dental care
- Extended health care
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- RRSP match
- Vision care

Ability to commute/relocate:

- Calgary, AB T2C 2V7: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Application question(s):

- What is your expected annual salary? Indicate a range (ex. $XX - $XX)

Work Location: In person