by Scott Wright

Over the past four years there has been a major evolution in the demand for category managers in Minneapolis. With Target leading the charge, category managers are the hottest ticket in town since the Twins were in the World Series in 1991.

Target suppliers have had to staff up in category management to meet the demands the mega retailer has placed on them. Not to be outdone Supervalu with its centralization has seen suppliers set up category management teams to better serve the emerging grocery retailer. In many cases category managers, not salespeople, are the primary point of contact for their company.

Let's face it: This trend has changed the supplier job market in Minneapolis. Category management skills and face time with the buyer give candidates some leverage to brand themselves. Because of the high demand for these candidates, many suppliers have found it difficult to find and retain category managers.

As a result, compensation packages and other perks for category managers have steadily improved. Many category managers are making a career doing category management calling on Target or Supervalu rather than staying with one company until they retire.

Understanding that category management talent is already at a premium and possessing the right skills could be very advantageous for someone trying to grow their career and their financial status in Minneapolis.