Jensen's Finest Foods is an independently owned upscale grocery chain located in Southern California looking for a qualified individual to oversee overall Produce Department operations at all locations. The applicant absolutely must have an in-depth knowledge of both basic, exotic and organic fruit and vegetable items and their various growing seasons. Previous produce purchasing, pricing, handling and merchandising experience is required.
The applicant will examine, select and negotiate with various vendors the most favorable price consistent with Jensen's quality then coordinate product distribution and rotation with store level staff and monitor product spoilage and inventory levels. Effectively merchandising and promoting the Produce Department with a focus on produce trends, quality, variety, uniqueness and/or customer value is expected.
The applicant must be able to build and maintain a professional and productive working relationship with various vendors and suppliers and effectively work with company staff to achieve established goals. The position requires minimal desk time and is hands on working side by side with produce staff and various other staff members. Regular visits to each Jensen's location to monitor store level product quality, presentation and execution of department promotions is required.
The applicant will be required to coordinate weekly ads, effectively promote produce promotions and special buys and prepare and distribute weekly Buying and Pricing Guides for store level staff. Visits to the Los Angeles Produce Market and various local growing fields will also be required.
The applicant must be familiar with analyzing operation statements (P&L), and the impact waste, labor and productivity have on the profitability of the Produce Departments.
Must have open availability for working hours, including some weekends, store special events and most holidays.
Pay rate will be negotiated during employment interview.
We offer employee health, vision, dental and life insurance, vacation and holiday compensation, a generous employee discount, convenient direct deposit and an employer matched 401(k) program. Eligibility restrictions may apply for some programs.
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Absolutely MUST have previous produce buying and merchandising experience and an in depth knowledge of produce product purchasing, handling, rotation and merchandising. Applicants without the appropriate experience should not apply.
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Must be able to work effectively with produce vendors, suppliers, growers and store level staff to achieve company sales, profits and inventory goals.
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Must have an understanding of produce wet rack procedures, proper product processing, handling, rotation and storage, preferably in a retail supermarket setting.
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Must be able and willing to regularly work at a store level with various produce staff to effectively merchandise and promote the Produce Department.
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Must have good math skills.
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Must have strong communication and organizational skills and be able to set priorities, meet deadlines and accomplish company objectives.
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Must follow safe food handling procedures.
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Must be able to effectively operate a computer in order to enter and obtain data essential to the operation of the Produce Department.
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Must be able to travel to various Jensen's locations to monitor product quality, presentation and work with store level staff.
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Must have a valid driver's license and good driving record to operate company vehicles.
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Repetitive bending, reaching and grasping required.
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Must be able to regularly lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.
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Must be able to stand and/or walk for extended periods of time.
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Vision abilities to perform this job include close vision.
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Must be able to provide a negative pre-employment drug test result which includes screening for marijuana.
