Farm Boy Inc.

Category Manager - Grocery

Farm Boy Inc.  •  Ottawa, CA (Onsite)  •  9 hours ago
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Job Description

If you’re looking for more, you’ve come to the right place.

From the moment we opened our doors in 1981, we knew we wanted to be different. The people who work here are special, and that’s what makes us special. Our team members uphold the standards we set long ago by making the exceptional everyday, building relationships with our customers and with each other, and finding a place where their potential meets opportunity.

Be part of what makes us different.

You’ll be responsible for driving the strategic growth and performance of assigned categories through product sourcing, vendor negotiations, pricing strategies, promotional planning, and purchasing activities. This position supports the delivery of high-quality products at competitive value while achieving established sales and profitability targets by monitoring market trends, evaluating business performance, and identifying opportunities to strengthen our competitive position. Here are some of the other ways you’ll help us stand out:

  • Analyze sales performance, promotional effectiveness, product movement, and category trends to support sales, margin, and profitability objectives.
  • Monitor competitive activity, industry trends, assortment strategies, pricing, and merchandising practices to identify opportunities and recommend improvements.
  • Research emerging food and retail trends through trade shows, market analysis, publications, and competitor reviews, recommending new product opportunities.
  • Source and develop products that align with Farm Boy quality standards, brand positioning, and customer expectations.
  • Coordinate product launches, listing presentations, and ongoing vendor relationships.
  • Negotiate supplier agreements and manage retail pricing strategies to support budgeted financial results.
  • Develop and maintain departmental planograms and support retail execution standards.
  • Partner with the Replenishment team to support inventory management, ordering processes, and product quality initiatives.
  • Coordinate packaging and labeling requirements in accordance with applicable government regulations and standards.
  • Ensure procurement activities are completed in compliance with Farm Boy policies, procedures, and documentation standards.
  • Support the development and maintenance of reporting tools and category performance tracking.
  • Provide guidance, support, and training to Assistant Category Managers.
  • Contribute to overall team success by taking on additional related responsibilities as needed.

Qualifications

What you bring to the table.

We provide the opportunity, and you bring the potential.

  • A genuine passion for delivering engaging and exceptional customer service.
  • Typically requires post-secondary education in Merchandising, Marketing, Business Management, or a related field, combined with 3 years of progressively responsible experience in category management, grocery, or fresh/perishable retail environments; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Strong knowledge of retail operations, merchandising principles, and food products.
  • Demonstrated negotiation and vendor management skills with sound business acumen.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail.
  • Effective time management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment in decision-making.
  • Strong computer proficiency, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
  • Passion for food retailing and delivering high standards of quality and customer value.
  • Comfortable working in an environment that includes extended periods of sitting, repetitive tasks, frequent computer use, open-office noise, and a flexible schedule that includes occasional travel between stores and regions with reliable transportation.
  • Fluency in English; French language skills considered an asset.

What we bring to the table.

At Farm Boy, we believe in supporting our Team Members throughout their careers. Whether, it’s at our Home Office or our stores, we’re proud to stand out in the market as a workplace that offers:

  • Comprehensive benefit program and coverage that varies by position.
  • Coverage may include healthcare, dental care, disability coverage, life insurance and registered retirement savings program.
  • A 10% discount on in-store purchases.
  • On-the-job training and the prioritization of internal promotions to help you grow and embrace new opportunities.
  • The opportunity to support local neighbourhoods through our community programs.

Additional Information

Grow a career with us.

Farm Boy takes pride in growing a team that represents the best in the business. Join us for the career you’re craving!

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to apply—including those with non-traditional career paths.

We strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported. Accommodations are available upon request for employees and applicants who may require them.

We do not use AI to assist in the recruitment process and this job posting is for a new vacancy.

Accommodation is available upon request for applicants and employees with disabilities.

Farm Boy Inc.

About Farm Boy Inc.

At Farm Boy, it’s all about the food. We believe great food starts close to home—with trusted growers, simple ingredients, and a passion for freshness that’s felt in every aisle. Since opening our first 300-square-foot produce shop in Cornwall, Ontario in 1981, we’ve stayed true to our roots: offering good food from good neighbours with “A Farm Boy Fresh Twist”.

That means getting closer to the farm through hand-selecting produce daily and partnering with local vendors across Ontario. It means curating the products we think you’ll love—everything from fan-favourite dips and made-from-scratch baked goods, to ready-to-enjoy chef-prepared meals made in the Farm Boy Kitchen. Our ever-growing Private Label line reflects our commitment to quality, flavour, and innovation—all with real ingredients and bold tastes.

Shopping at Farm Boy isn’t just an errand—it’s a feel-good, fresh-market experience. Our stores are clean, vibrant, and welcoming, with Team Members who are always ready to lend a hand (and never a self-checkout in sight). Whether you're shopping for everyday essentials or something new and exciting, we're here to make your visit easy, inspiring, and full of great finds.

In every Farm Boy store, you’ll discover:

• Farm-fresh produce—longer-lasting and delivered daily.

• Curated, exclusive Private Label products you won’t find anywhere else.

• Locally sourced foods from Ontario farmers, makers, and artisans.

• A warm, helpful atmosphere that feels like shopping with friends.

• Hundreds of options for every lifestyle—from vegan to gluten-free to organic.

• And so much more!

With 51 locations (and counting) across Ontario, we’re proud to grow alongside the communities we serve. But no matter how big we get, our mission stays the same: deliver exceptional food with a personal touch.

Come in and experience “A Farm Boy Fresh Twist” for yourself.

Industry
Retail & Ecommerce
Company Size
1,001-5,000 employees
Headquarters
Ottawa, CA
Year Founded
1981
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