Associate Manager – Category Operations

Staples Promotional Products

Associate Manager driving Staples’ category operations, customer implementations, vendor coordination, billing, and process improvement. Leading scalable workflows, KPIs, SOPs, and cross-functional service execution.

Posted 8/6/2026full-timeRemote • Massachusetts • 🇺🇸 United StatesJuniorMid-LevelWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates strong operational and analytical capabilities with a focus on continuous improvement, effective change management, and adherence to service level agreements. Proven experience in developing Standard Operating Procedures and managing cross-functional collaborations to enhance operational performance.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Operational Workflows ManagementKPI and SLA ManagementChange ManagementProcess ImprovementAdvanced Excel Proficiency

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Operational AnalysisRoot Cause AnalysisStandard Operating Procedures DevelopmentPerformance Metrics ManagementProgram ManagementData ReportingService Level Agreements AdherenceCustomer Implementation ManagementBilling and Invoicing OversightOperational Standards Improvement

Soft Skills

Problem-SolvingDecision-MakingAttention to DetailEffective CommunicationCollaboration

Tools & Technologies

ExcelPower BITableauSalesforceOperational Tools

Industry Keywords

Operational WorkflowsChange Management InitiativesCustomer-Facing EnvironmentsVendor ManagementCross-Functional Collaboration

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Tableau

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Oversee daily operational workflows, including prioritization, issue resolution, and service execution
Ensure adherence to service level agreements (SLAs), operational controls, and quality standards
Develop, maintain, and govern Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Identify operational gaps, perform root cause analysis, and implement sustainable solutions
Analyze operational data and report on KPIs, SLAs, and performance trends to inform decision-making
Design and deliver training programs for tools, systems, and operational processes
Drive adoption of new tools, systems, and workflows through structured change management
Partner cross-functionally with Sales, Vendors, Customer Service, Finance, Technology, and Merchandising to align execution
Lead customer implementations, installations, and escalations to ensure high-quality delivery
Provide oversight of billing, invoicing, and reconciliation processes to ensure accuracy and policy adherence

Requirements

What you’ll need

Strong operational and analytical mindset with excellent attention to detail
Ability to manage multiple priorities and operate effectively in a fast-paced environment
Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making skills
Effective communication and collaboration skills across diverse teams
Customer-focused approach and strong escalation management capabilities
Ability to navigate ambiguity and drive successful outcomes
Experience leading or mentoring team members in operational environments
Proven track record in continuous improvement initiatives and change management
Advanced proficiency in Excel and reporting tools such as Power BI, Tableau, or Salesforce
Experience working with vendors and cross-functional teams to enhance performance and customer experience
5+ years of experience in operations, program management, or process improvement
Experience managing operational workflows, programs, or processes
Proven ability to develop and improve SOPs and operational standards
Experience managing KPIs, SLAs, and performance metrics
Bachelor’s Degree in business operations, project management, communications, or a related field (preferred)
Experience with process improvement or change management initiatives
Advanced Excel and reporting tool proficiency (Power BI, Tableau, Salesforce)
Experience with system implementations, testing, or operational tools
Experience working in customer-facing or vendor-integrated operational environments
Prior experience leading or mentoring team members

Benefits

Comp & perks

Inclusive culture with associate-led Business Resource Groups
Flexible PTO (22 days)
Holiday Schedule (7 observed paid holidays)
Online and Retail Discounts
Company Match 401(k)
Physical and Mental Health Wellness programs