Established in 1979, Central West Produce has grown and matured into one of the elite strawberry shippers in North America. We are a multifaceted organization, with our strong sales and hardworking determination, we have expanded our initial 27-acres operation to a fully integrated Grower and Marketer in 6 different regions throughout North America. We are no longer just a strawberry company, we are annually increasing our production footprint in blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries conventionally and organically grown. We strive to become the premier berry growing and sales organization as we are driving sales worldwide through innovation in services and our berries. We take pride in providing safe, nutritious, quality berries for our customers worldwide.
Summary/Objective
As Commodity Manager – BushBerries, you will be responsible for ensuring the continuity of supply of Raspberries, Blackberries, and Blueberries from already established growing partners as well as developing the 365-day supply program for Central West Produce.
Essential Functions
- Drive continued company growth and profitability by delivering 365 supply of Blueberries, Raspberries, and Blackberries. Both Conventionally and Organic.
- Manage the day-to-day relationships of the current grower base effectively to achieve competitive grower returns.
- Keep sales team and management fully advised daily of available stock and any issues that may impact potential supply to customers.
- Ensure S&D planner is updated with forward grower estimated volumes.
- Manage outside purchases as required to ensure customer POs are fulfilled as directed by Sales team.
- Ensure growers are notified of any quality issues or issues that may impact their return pricing.
- Ensure pricing is communicated to the supply base through the weekly Grower Market update; and also, as requested by growers.
- Manage the importation of sea-freight containers including sea freight, customs, and import processes.
- Ensure all growers are compliant under the Central West Produce Compliance and Quality framework before commencing supply.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to drive short or long distances, stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle or feel, and reach with hands and arms.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or related field: or five years of work experience.
- Excellent communication, organization, negotiation, reasoning, and strategic planning skills required.
- Detail-oriented and able to work independently.
- Problem Analysis and Problem-Solving Skills
- Working knowledge of Fresh Produce supply chain financial models.
- Advanced relationship management skills.
- Strong Attention to Detail in time-critical situations.
- Works effectively in a Dynamic & Fast Paced Environment.
- Highly organized
- Must be impeccably honest, personable, reliable, and trustworthy: uses discretion regarding confidentiality issues.
- Creative and tenacious Problem Solver
- Willingness to Travel extensively as required.
- Knowledge and ability to use basic software systems: Excel, Word, and PowerPoint as part of the daily job function.
- Spanish Bi-Literacy Preferred
Employee Benefits
- Health Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision)
- 401k with employer matching
- Paid Time off
*We will be accepting candidates at the IFPA event OCTOBER 19-21, 2023 | ANAHEIM, CA the Global Produce & Floral Show.
