Shaun Black

Accomplished executive with a proven track record in category management, procurement, supply chain optimization, & strategic business planning. As a results-driven leader, I have consistently led executives to implement transformative strategies, turning decentralized business units into centralized centers of excellence. Noteworthy achievements include spearheading Sysco's transformational initiatives, where I developed and executed centralized growth strategies across diverse regions and operating sites. My expertise extends to a comprehensive understanding of products and suppliers across categories in grocery, dairy, and commodities.

As the leader of the Sysco Dairy Department, I spearheaded the implementation and execution of the 6-step category management process, utilizing data-driven insights to craft comprehensive strategies for category growth. Provided oversight to the team entrusted with developing the category strategy, defining the core assortment, suppliers, and brands necessary for category growth. Actively collaborated with the sourcing team during the Request for Proposal (RFP) process, ensuring the acquisition of products from strategically identified suppliers at competitive costs.

As a Senior Category Advisor at General Mills, I served as the category captain for both the yogurt and refrigerated dough categories. In this role, I led a high-performing team that spearheaded Wal-Mart's dairy optimization project, strategically enhancing sales rates through the optimization of adjacencies within dairy categories. Our data-driven approach leveraged Retail Link data to successfully grow Wal-Mart's market share within the yogurt category, particularly during the Greek yogurt expansion into the US. This initiative not only showcased our analytical prowess but also underscored our ability to drive tangible business results through effective category management strategies.

As Business Planning Manager, developed and implemented impactful pricing strategies, optimizing trade spend for maximum profitability and growth. Analyzed factors like EDLP vs Hi-Lo, everyday and promoted price points, and timing. Delivered strategic recommendations enhancing both profitable volume growth and trade spending efficiency.

Facilitated communication between marketing and field sales, overseeing trade spend complexities and business development. Provided strategic recommendations to the field sales team, advising on optimal trade fund utilization for incremental sales growth while adhering to cost per case targets. Effectively conveyed corporate brand teams' marketing plans to customers in a field-ready manner, ensuring alignment with business objectives.

As the Customer Account Manager I was the lead salesperson for the SuperValu supplied customers in the Saint Louis market. I cultivated relationships with my customers and positioned General Mills as a strategic supplier who was an enabler to them reaching their goals. In this role I excelled at anticipating my customers’ needs and making sure their needs were prioritized within GMI. I successfully sold in new items and seasonal items that drove incremental sales.