The Vice President – Product Category Management & Culinary is the senior executive responsible for shaping and executing strategy, performance, and profitability of product categories across the SONIC brand organization. Reporting directly to the SONIC Chief Marketing Officer, this leader oversees category planning, product lifecycle management, assortment optimization, pricing, vendor relationships, and go-to-market strategies. The VP also drives the overall culinary vision, innovation, and operational excellence across all food and beverage outlets within the organization.The executive ensures brand consistency, menu development, food quality, and cost control, while leading a team of product category and culinary professionals to deliver exceptional guest experiences and support business growth.ResponsibilitiesDefine and implement the overall vision, strategy, and long-term roadmap for all product categoriesDrive innovation and identify opportunities for category expansion or repositioningDevelop and execute the company's culinary vision, strategy, and innovation roadmapProvide leadership and mentorship to executive chefs, regional culinary directors, and kitchen teamsEnsure brand standards, menu consistency, and high-quality execution across all locationsOversee product assortment strategy, pricing, and lifecycle management for assigned categoriesMonitor category performance, adjusting strategies to optimize sales, margins, and inventoryLead the creation of new menu items that align with brand identity, consumer trends, and profitability goalsPartner with brand experience to launch seasonal and promotional offeringsOversee recipe standardization, testing, and rollouts across the systemPartner with merchandising and supply chain to optimize sourcing, vendor relationships, and cost efficiencyCollaborate with brand experience and digital teams to develop category‑specific promotional plansWork closely with finance to set category budgets, forecasts, and financial performance targetsMonitor food cost, waste management, and vendor relationships to maximize profitabilityCollaborate with supply chain and procurement teams to source quality, sustainable, and cost‑effective ingredientsBuild, lead, and develop a high‑performing category & culinary management team.Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and customer‑centric thinkingEnsure culinary excellence that supports overall brand reputation and customer satisfactionRepresenting the culinary function at industry events, trade shows, and media opportunitiesEstablish KPIs and dashboards to measure category health and business performanceUse data‑driven insights to drive decision‑making and continuous improvementDeliver regular performance updates to executive leadership and key stakeholdersEducation And Experience Qualifications12+ years of progressive experience in product/category management, merchandising, or related fields, with at least 5 years in senior leadership roles4‑year Degree in Business, Marketing or related field required. Advanced degree preferredProven success in driving category growth, profitability, and innovationStrong analytical skills with expertise in P&L management and data‑driven decision‑makingExperience in multi‑unit retail, consumer goods, or foodservice industries highly preferredRequired Knowledge, Skills, Or AbilitiesExceptional strategic thinking skills with a strong commercial mindsetResults‑oriented with strong ability to balance short‑term wins and long‑term growthProven skills in building strong vendor partnerships and customer‑centric strategiesCollaborative leader who thrives in a fast‑paced, dynamic environmentExcellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skillsThis position sits within our Atlanta based Global Support Center with an expectation to be onsite 80% of the time.#J-18808-Ljbffr
