Associate Category Manager , Ice Cream and Frozen Food

We’re building a world of health around every individual — shaping a more connected, convenient and compassionate health experience. At CVS Health®, you’ll be surrounded by passionate colleagues who care deeply, innovate with purpose, hold ourselves accountable and prioritize safety and quality in everything we do. Join us and be part of something bigger – helping to simplify health care one person, one family and one community at a time.

Position Summary

CVS Health is seeking an Associate Category Manager to join the Front Store Merchandising Team, supporting the Ice Cream and Frozen Foods business. This role is responsible for driving category performance through financial ownership, assortment planning, promotions, vendor collaboration, and data‑driven strategy execution.

The position follows a hybrid work model (3 days per week in Woonsocket, RI office).

The ideal candidate brings 3–5 years of experience in CPG manufacturing, retail merchandising, buying, or analytical roles and demonstrates strong strategic thinking, cross‑functional collaboration, and vendor negotiation skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and manage the Ice Cream and Frozen Foods categories, including full P&L responsibility
• Develop and execute category strategies that align with customer needs, business objectives, and market dynamics
• Lead assortment planning, pricing, promotions, and financial analysis to drive sales growth and profitability
• Partner with Planogram (POG) Design to create, implement, and manage effective in‑store layouts
• Collaborate with internal teams including Inventory, Pricing, Promotions, Finance, Store Brands, Store Design, and Store Operations
• Initiate and execute strategic promotional and marketing plans to improve customer experience and category performance
• Manage vendor relationships, including negotiating with manufacturers and distributors on product placement, pricing, and strategy
• Leverage multiple data sources to analyze business performance, identify trends, and uncover growth opportunities
• Monitor competitive activity and proactively identify new competitive and category expansion opportunities
• Stay current on market trends, consumer preferences, supplier pricing, and industry developments
• Influence execution through cross‑functional collaboration and clear communication
• May provide oversight and development support for colleagues such as a Merchandising Analyst

Core Competencies

• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills; able to navigate complex systems and processes
• Takes initiative and addresses opportunities and challenges proactively
• Strategic mindset with the ability to anticipate risks and opportunities
• Drives innovation, speed, and continuous improvement
• Demonstrates a growth mindset and commitment to professional development
• Leads and collaborates effectively within high‑performing teams
• Influences and aligns stakeholders to support initiatives and shared business goals

Required Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in CPG manufacturing, retail, merchandising, buying, or analytical roles
• 3+ years of experience developing and executing business plans using data and consumer insights
• 3+ years of experience collaborating cross‑functionally and with external suppliers
• 3+ years of experience developing category strategies to achieve short‑ and long‑term business objectives
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong working knowledge of retail math and financial analysis
• Proven ability to negotiate and implement strategies that drive sales growth
• Strong leadership, communication, and business storytelling skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
• Experience with MS Office tools, Access, or other database systems
• Advanced analytical and technical capabilities

Education

• Bachelor’s degree required (preferred fields: Business, Math, Science, or related)
• Master’s degree preferred

Anticipated Weekly Hours

40

Time Type

Full time

Pay Range

The typical pay range for this role is:

$66,330.00 - $145,860.00

This pay range represents the base hourly rate or base annual full-time salary for all positions in the job grade within which this position falls.  The actual base salary offer will depend on a variety of factors including experience, education, geography and