Category Insights Analyst

Description:

About Us:

Empire Marketing Strategies has been a leader in delivering exceptional in-store execution for over 40 years, enhancing the customer experience in grocery retail. Operating in all 18 Kroger divisions across the U.S., we partner with some of the world's top brands to optimize their presence in over 2,500 store locations. Our team thrives on tackling diverse challenges in the fast-paced retail industry. We value dedication, talent, and a passion for excellence.

Why Join Us?

• We offer competitive time off packages including 9 paid holidays.
• Earn a competitive salary plus 80% employer-covered benefits.
• Up to 10% annual performance bonus potential.
• Our Educational Assistance Program empowers associates to enhance their business-related skills through continued learning and development.
• A dynamic work environment where you’ll make a real impact.
• Full-Time Associates are eligible for medical, dental, vision, life and AD&D insurance, disability coverage, a retirement program, mental health support, paid time off, and 9 paid holidays annually.
• Part-Time Associates are eligible for our retirement program and access to mental health support resources.

Job Summary:

The Category & Supplier Insights Analyst provides analytical support across category management, supplier performance, business reporting, pricing, and operational initiatives. This role transforms retailer, supplier, shopper, and operational data into actionable insights that drive business growth, improve performance, and support strategic decision-making. The analyst partners with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and business stakeholders to identify opportunities, solve problems, and improve operational efficiency.

Essential Functions:

Analytics & Business Insights

• Analyze sales, margin, pricing, inventory, and category performance to identify trends and opportunities.
• Develop insights related to assortment, pricing, promotions, and category growth.
• Create dashboards, scorecards, reports, and presentations for business partners and leadership.
• Translate complex data into clear, actionable recommendations.
• Support business reviews, category reviews, and strategic initiatives.

Supplier & Operational Support

• Monitor supplier performance, service levels, fill rates, and key performance metrics.
• Develop and maintain supplier scorecards and KPI reporting.
• Support forecasting, inventory planning, and supply chain initiatives.
• Investigate and resolve operational, pricing, and costing discrepancies.
• Validate data accuracy and maintain reporting integrity.

Financial & Pricing Analysis

• Review sales, margin, and cost performance against budgets and forecasts.
• Conduct pricing reviews and identify cost or invoicing discrepancies.
• Track the impact of promotions, pricing changes, and supplier costs.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning activities.

Collaboration

• Partner with Sales, Marketing, Finance, Supply Chain, Category Management, and vendor partners.
• Support cross-functional projects and communicate analytical findings to stakeholders.

Requirements:

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Finance, Analytics, or a related field.
• 1–2 years of experience in analytics, CPG, retail, or a data-driven business environment.
• Experience working with Kroger or similar retail accounts is a plus.

Skills

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Advanced Excel skills, including Pivot Tables, XLOOKUP/VLOOKUP, and Power Query.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Experience with reporting and visualization tools such as Power BI, Tableau, or similar platforms.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Experience

• Experience with syndicated, POS, loyalty, or retailer data sources.
• Experience with Nielsen, Circana/IRI, 84.51, Numerator, KCMS, or similar platforms.
• Experience with ERP systems, inventory planning, forecasting, and category management.
• CPCA certification is a plus.

Work Environment:

• Based in the Greater Cincinnati area, with a requirement of 5 days in the office.
• Collaborative and dynamic team environment with cross-functional engagement.