Schematics Manager

Who We Are  

At C.A. Carlin, we take brands to new heights. We are one of the leading privately held sales agencies in the industry. Thanks to nimble growth and associations with our operating partners, C.A. Fortune and C.A. Ferolie, we have built brand value that is unlike any other in the CPG industry.  

What We Do  

Since our start in 1962, we have built industry relationships on the foundation of trust and action. We turn information into insight. We convert insight into programs. We drive programs that consistently deliver results to our clients, on their timeline.  

We have more than 300 associates and multiple offices throughout the country. We represent top brands in many categories such as confection, snack, grocery, beverage, frozen, dairy etc. 

Overview of the Role 

• The Schematics Manager will champion the development and maintenance of best-in-class reporting and planograms to grow core and new product distribution. They will act as a leader by providing the analytics, insights and key shelving principles needed to optimize distribution and shelf placement for our retail partners.      
• Fully remote but if local to Chicago, IL, Cincinnati, OH or Eden Prairie, MN will observe a hybrid schedule (3 days in office)
• Salary range $85,000 - $98,000 based on experience, qualifications and skills
• Less than 10-20% travel requirements to aid in client presentations  
• At C.A. we’re not looking for perfection, just people that want to commit to a us and grow their careers long-term. If you’re looking for a sign to apply, here it is! 

What You’ll Do at C.A. Carlin 

• Create, maintain and perfect planogram tools such as an image library and item library to be leveraged by category management.  
• Implement category management strategy aligned with the gold standard merchandising vision.   
• Develop best-in-class and retailer-specific planograms and merchandising proposals:  
• Use all space planning/Blue Yonder functions to create and maintain planograms  
• Develop best-in-class shelving principles rooted in data and insights  
• Create various iterations of planograms based on retailer needs and set sizes  
• Utilize syndicated data to develop fact-based analysis and drive optimal utilization of shelf space.  
• Develop and deliver account presentations showcasing shelving principles and set recommendations to drive efficient assortment and positive volume growth. 
• Work with the Business Managers to manage the distribution priorities by retailer and determine key opportunities.  
• Improve methodology related to reporting, analysis, identifying distribution voids and quantifying opportunity gaps.  
• Become an expert in the analytical tools and resources available.  
• Maintain strong communication link with category management peers across both organizations. 

What You Should Bring to the Table 

• Bachelor’s Degree plus 6-10 years CPG industry sales and category management experience
• High level of proficiency in Blue Yonder, space planning and Circana (IRI), Nielsen data, or SPINs (Satori) preferred   
• Deep understanding of planogramming end-to-end workflow, the systems and programs used, and the broader impact on the organization. 
• A proven record of developing optimized planograms and POG versioning; in-depth experience with planogram analysis, shelving & category management principals  
• Well-honed analytical and highly advanced Excel & PowerPoint skills  
• Advanced communications skills, ability to clearly articulate complex concepts in a concise manner. 
• A demonstrated competency in multi-tasking and problem-solving with focus on meeting deadlines. 
• Strong analytical and strategic thinker; can turn self-developed strategies/efficient processes into execution.   
• Extremely organized and detail-oriented. 
• Demonstrated ability to achieve high performance goals and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. 

Perks 

• PTO & Sick Days
• 11 paid company holidays per year 
• 2 paid volunteer days per year 
• 3 months fully paid parental leave (regardless of gender) 
• Medical, dental, and vision 
• Paid company life insurance 
• 401k with company match 
• Summer hours (half day Fridays from Memorial Day thru Labor Day) 
• Work from home flexibility 

Come As You Are 

C.A. is committed to making our company more inclusive. Diversity fuels our innovation and better connects us to our clients, our colleagues, and our communities. Based on research, we know that women and other marginalized groups tend to apply to roles only when their experience perfectly matches the job description. That said, we encourage you to apply if you meet the majority of qualifications, especially if this role aligns with your career trajectory.