Category Manager Assistant/Coordinator

At Harbor Foodservice, we do more than distribute food. We build lasting partnerships with independent restaurants throughout the Pacific Northwest. We are seeking a Category Manager Assistant/Coordinator who is eager to move beyond spreadsheets and play a hands-on role in shaping the future of our product categories.

This is a growth-focused role for an individual who brings strong organizational skills, analytical curiosity, and a team-first mindset. You will support the execution of strategic initiatives, manage the details that keep the business moving, and help connect insights to action across cross-functional teams.

If you love food, data, and fast-paced environments, and you are eager to build a career in category management, this might be the perfect fit for you!

The pay range is $24.00 - $26.00 per hour.

• Self-starter with initiative, curiosity, and a strong desire to learn and grow within the business

• Support Category Strategy: Assist in developing and executing category plans aligned with customer needs, sales goals, and market opportunities
• Support Item & Vendor Excellence: Assist in product setup, vendor onboarding, and maintaining data integrity to enable speed to market and ensure clear internal communication
• Analyze & Act: Present reporting and synthesize data to support SKU maintenance, rationalization, aged inventory management, and category performance
• Facilitate Vendor Collaboration: Prepare for vendor meetings and negotiations by consolidating performance reports such as fill rates, purchase history, and aged inventory
• Coordinate Promotional Activity: Help execute vendor-funded programs and seasonal promotions, ensuring budgets, item details, and timelines are aligned
• Support Internal Communication: Maintain up-to-date sales enablement tools such as promotional guides, new item spotlights, and compliance program trackers
• Ensure Program Compliance: Collaborate with Category Managers to monitor program compliance orders and ensure vendor objectives are met
• Contribute to Events: Help organize and support major merchandising events and food shows
• Complete Special Projects: Tackle process improvements and cross-departmental projects that contribute to business success
• Support Where Needed: Take on additional tasks as assigned by department leadership

• Self-starter with initiative, curiosity, and a strong desire to learn and grow within the business
• Some experience in merchandising, purchasing, supply chain, or a related role is beneficial, ideally within foodservice, wholesale, retail, or CPG
• Working knowledge of the restaurant distribution industry preferred
• Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Office skills, especially Excel. Experience with Access, Cut+Dry, or PE is a plus
• Strong time management, prioritization, and organizational skills
• Analytical mindset with curiosity to uncover trends and recommend improvements
• Clear communication skills and comfort collaborating across functions and vendors
• Comfortable taking ownership of your work while staying flexible in a fast-paced, team-first environment