🌟 Growth-Driven Professional with a Passion for Innovation 🌟With over a decade of diverse experience in category management, procurement, and team leadership, I’ve built a career centered on driving results and fostering collaboration. My journey spans key roles across major organizations, where I've successfully managed significant portfolios, negotiated multimillion-dollar contracts, and optimized product assortments to enhance sales performance.As a Lead Category Manager, I focus on strategic insight and hands-on execution, leading initiatives that boost client satisfaction and operational efficiency. I have developed impactful business plans, enhanced vendor relationships, and mentored new associates to nurture future leaders.I’m proud to have been a guest on the Category Management Association's podcast, discussing the importance of relationships in our industry. Additionally, I was honored to be recognized as a GenNext honoree by Progressive Grocer and completed the St. Joseph's Future Food Industry Leaders Rising Star program. These experiences have deepened my commitment to continuous learning and community engagement.Passionate about giving back, I actively volunteer and participate in initiatives that promote belonging and innovation. I believe in the power of mentorship and enjoy sharing insights with emerging talent.Let’s connect to share ideas, explore new opportunities, and drive growth together! 🚀
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Senior Category ManagerUnfiMechanicsville, Va, Us -
Lead Category ManagerUnfi Sep 2024 - PresentProvidence, Rhode Island, United StatesAs a Lead Category Manager at UNFI East Region, I served as the primary client liaison for the Grocery, Frozen, and Dairy categories, managing an annual sales volume of $317M across multiple clients. My role involved leading and participating in key project initiatives, including participating in negotiating a $66.8M national program for ecommerce clients. I also played a vital role in training new associates and was actively involved in UNFI’s belonging and innovation groups.
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Category Manager - East RegionUnfi Nov 2019 - Sep 2024Providence, Rhode Island, United StatesAs a Category Manager for UNFI East Region, I oversaw the mayo, salad dressing, condiments, pickles, olives, and vinegar categories, managing an annual sales volume of $157.8M. I participated in project management initiatives, including supporting the sales team for added clients with annual sales of $22M and training new associates. My role also involved organizing team-building activities and employee engagement events, while actively participating in belonging and innovation groups and serving as a Microsoft 365 champion.I managed 10+ additional categories during transitions, including snacks, cereals, and prepared foods. Key responsibilities included developing and executing category business plans, managing vendor relationships, and optimizing product assortments to drive sales and margin. I also collaborated with procurement, warehouse operations, and customer service to ensure seamless operations and compliance with corporate agreements.
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BuyerPerformance Foodservice Nov 2018 - Nov 2019Richmond, Virginia, United StatesAt Performance Foodservice, I managed the procurement of half the dry grocery assortment, reporting directly to the category manager and senior leadership. My responsibilities included overseeing the intercompany transfer process, supporting convenience, candy, and concessions for theaters and sports venues, and handling special and custom product sourcing. I worked closely with suppliers to ensure product availability, negotiated pricing and contracts, and supported various foodservice distribution needs. -
Category MerchandiserSupervalu Sep 2018 - Nov 2018Mechanicsville, Virginia, United StatesManaged $64.5M in annual sales categories, including salty and alternative snacks. Acted as the Customer Merchandising Representative for clients with annual sales of $716.7M, overseeing $146.1M in annual sales within their product assortment. Led category management efforts, including developing business plans, managing vendor relationships, and coordinating promotional activities. Took on additional project management responsibilities as needed, ensuring successful product launches and optimizing inventory and sales performance. -
Business AnalystSupervalu Apr 2017 - Sep 2018Mechanicsville, Virginia, United StatesSupported the onboarding of a major client with substantial revenue, aligning all categories, including center store and fresh departments. Developed and implemented a forecasting system and reporting process, collaborating with IT, merchandising, procurement, operations, and customer service teams. Managed vendor relationships analyzed data to drive strategic decisions, and optimized procurement processes for enhanced profitability. Created a forecasting methodology for the client to improve demand planning and inventory management. Developed standard operating procedures and training materials, ensuring consistency and efficiency across departmental processes.
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Dated Orders SpecialistSupervalu Jun 2016 - Apr 2017Mechanicsville, Virginia, United StatesManaged customer service operations for clients with $185.7M in annual sales, overseeing procurement, order management, and more. Played a key role in onboarding a major client with substantial revenue, including managing cross-dock suppliers for specialty cheese and seasonal candy programs. Developed training materials and standard operating procedures for departmental consistency and provided support during staff shortages and inclement weather. Managed the Niagara Bottling DSWI process for region clients. Contributed to operational efficiency and supported key accounts and strategic initiatives through effective management and specialized duties.
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Floral DesignerA.C. Moore 2016 - 2017Richmond, Virginia, United StatesLed sales initiatives in a high-performing floral department, tracking metrics and crafting seasonal merchandising strategies to boost revenue. Managed a custom floral program, delivering tailored solutions to meet customer needs. Provided regional training and support, conducting floral arranging and wreath-making classes, including techniques like deco mesh. Innovatively repurposed post-seasonal merchandise, earning recognition for my "trash to treasure" approach, and showcased designs at prominent events like the Fan District Association’s Holiday House Tour and Fort Gregg-Adams Army Base. Demonstrated excellence in both sales performance and community engagement. -
Merchandising SupervisorA.C. Moore 2014 - 2016Richmond, Virginia, United StatesDrove sales and enhanced the retail experience across needlework & fiber arts, handicrafts, and floral crafts departments. Engaged with customers to make informed merchandising decisions, focusing on sewing, crochet, knitting, and other crafts. Implemented strategic customer interactions and merchandising strategies, contributing to the growth and profitability of these areas.
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Operations SupervisorA.C. Moore 2012 - 2014Richmond, Virginia, United StatesOversaw hiring, onboarding, and training of new employees while ensuring compliance with maintenance and recovery standards. Managed procurement for front-end and office supplies within budget constraints, conducted cash reconciliation and payroll processing, and maintained accurate records for attendance and disciplinary actions. Coordinated local events and seasonal nonprofit activities, such as Wine & Whisker’s and Toys for Tots, enhancing community engagement and store visibility. Executed responsibilities with a focus on adherence to standard operating procedures and confidentiality.
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Front End SupervisorA.C. Moore 2011 - 2012Richmond, Virginia, United StatesManaged daily operations of the store’s front end, including employee scheduling, register assignments, and customer service oversight. Strategically merchandised the front end based on impulse sales data and seasonal trends, such as back-to-school supplies and weather-related items. Recognized by CEO Pepe Piperno and regional leadership for exceptional customer service and innovative merchandising strategies that significantly boosted sales and enhanced customer experiences.
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Activity SpecialistA.C. Moore 2010 - 2011Glen Allen, Virginia, United StatesManaged a diverse range of craft courses and events at the store level, including cake decorating, painting, paper crafts, floral arranging, knitting, and crochet. Oversaw all aspects from planning and marketing to execution, collaborating with instructors to ensure seamless delivery. Spearheaded community-focused events for K-12 and adults, enhancing customer engagement and driving sales. Coordinated with organizations like the Girl Scouts to offer specialized coursework, strengthening community ties and positioning the store as a creative and educational hub.
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Retail Sales AssociateA.C. Moore 2010 - 2011Glen Allen, Virginia, United States
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Disk JockeyBabes Of Carytown 2011 - 2017Richmond, Virginia, United StatesProvided dynamic entertainment services for “Flashback” Fridays and various events, including live performances, fundraisers, and private parties. Ensured flawless operation of audio equipment. Collaborated with event organizers to tailor music and entertainment to client preferences, delivering high-quality experiences and personalized service to enhance the success and enjoyment of diverse events.
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CashierBogey'S Sports Park 2007 - 2010Goochland, Virginia, United States
Brian Rutherford Education Details
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Business Administration And Management, General
Frequently Asked Questions about Brian Rutherford
What company does Brian Rutherford work for?
Brian Rutherford works for Unfi
What is Brian Rutherford's role at the current company?
Brian Rutherford's current role is Senior Category Manager.
What schools did Brian Rutherford attend?
Brian Rutherford attended Virginia Commonwealth University.
Who are Brian Rutherford's colleagues?
Brian Rutherford's colleagues are Thomas Borkowski, Maryan Esther Orozco Viloria, Nate Stanoch, Ricky Berrios, Joshua Rios, Aida Troche, Bridget Gabriel.
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Brian Rutherford
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