The Category Manager, Produce will be involved in the selection of growers/shippers, development of strategies, managing logistics, establishing purchasing procedures, and managing price and setting specifications for product quality. In addition, this position will manage forecasting and planning to maintain adequate supply. Ensure program compliance on part of growers, transporters, technology providers and distributors to include processes related to food safety.
- 5+ years of experience in perishable supply chain management
- Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management/Logistics or other related field or equivalent work experience
- Proven ability to communicate effectively over the phone, good negotiating and interpersonal skills and ability to handle stress effectively.
- Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
- Must be able to use computer applications effectively, as well as other office equipment and perform data entry functions continuously.
What we offer:
- Competitive Salary and Benefit plans
- Healthcare Plan including health/dental/vision insurance
- 401K Plan
- Section 125 Flexible Spending Account
- Life Insurance
- Short and Long Term Disability
- Paid time off
- Paid holidays
We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer. Applicants for employment are considered without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, age, disability, status as a veteran, Vietnam Era Veteran, or being a member of the Reserves or National Guard.
- Manage all aspects of the produce supply chain from grower to distributor.
- Serve as liaison for any escalated incidents taking place between any points within produce supply chain.
- Monitor and react to any outside influence that can cause a disruption to inventory and quality such as market and weather reports, labor issues and USDA recalls.
- Forecast holiday requirements to distribution partners for all utilized commodities.
- Develop and manage a competitive bid process to determine most desirable supply chain partners.
- Manage supplier and grower selection including negotiation of prices, volume and service level.
- Analyze produce supply chain to recommend and lead any potential cost saving measures.
- Identify areas within produce supply chain to increase revenue.
- Serve as company representative at Distributor Open Houses and National Produce Conferences. 10-20% travel required.
- Cross-functional coordination with all departments to provide market insight into marketing, innovation and e-commerce initiatives.
- Develop and insure standard work processes are in place and utilized.
- Perform other job duties as assigned by the Director of purchasing or designee.
