Category Development Manager

We're hiring a Category Development Manager to join our growing team at Vesta Foodservice. This is a great opportunity for someone who is passionate about food, product development, vendor relationships, and the foodservice industry. The role is dynamic, hands-on, and highly collaborative, with exposure to category strategy, new product launches, sales support, and cross-functional growth initiatives. We're looking for someone curious, proactive, and excited to be part of a fast-moving company with a strong team culture and plenty of opportunity to grow." Vesta Foodservice is a leading specialty foodservice distributor known for our “Yes, Chef” service model, deep supplier relationships, and commitment to delivering exceptional products and service to chefs and operators.Position OverviewAs we enter our next phase of growth, we are seeking a Category Development Manager to support and execute category strategy across both produce and non-produce segments. This role is critical to expanding our product offering, strengthening vendor partnerships, and driving profitable growth.Key ResponsibilitiesCategory Execution & Support- Support category strategy across produce and non-produce categories- Identify opportunities for new products and assortment expansion- Coordinate product setup, specs, and internal communication for new items- Ensure alignment between category strategy and executionVendor & Product Coordination- Work with vendors to support product launches and programs- Assist in evaluating new vendors and product opportunities- Coordinate product samples and onboarding- Maintain strong vendor communicationProduct Development & Launch- Support new product introductions from concept through launch- Coordinate with Marketing and Sales for successful rollout- Track performance of new itemsSales & Business Development Support- Partner with Sales and Key Accounts on product needs- Support RFPs through product research- Assist in building product solutionsCross-Functional Collaboration- Work with Purchasing, Operations, and Marketing teams- Ensure product availability and operational feasibility- Communicate category updates internallyQualifications Required- 2–5+ years of experience in foodservice, produce, or category-related role- Strong organizational and project management skills- Ability to manage multiple priorities- Strong communication and follow-through- High attention to detailPreferred- Experience in foodservice distribution or produce industry- Exposure to vendor management or product sourcing- Experience supporting sales teamsWhat Makes This Role Different• Direct exposure to category strategy and leadership• Opportunity to work across both produce and non-produce categories• Role contributes to building and scaling the function• Clear path for growth within the companyWho You Are• Curious and proactive• Solutions-oriented• Comfortable in a fast-paced environment• Interested in food and product developmentCompensation & BenefitsCompetitive salary (based on experience)Health, dental, and vision benefitsGrowth opportunities within a rapidly expanding company