Produce Category Manager

Salary 100-120k

This position is in LA.  Sign on bonus offered for relocation

Position Summary:

Responsible for the development and performance of all Produce sales activities in the assigned district. Staffs and directs a team of Produce Sales Specialists and provides leadership towards the achievement of maximum profitability and growth of the Produce Category in line with company vision and values. Establishes plans and strategies to expand the customer base in the territory and contributes to the development of training and educational programs for Customers, Operations, Purchasing and Sales Associates.

What You’ll Do:

• Introducing successful New Products locally that are onboarded nationally when applicable.
• Support Sales Training and Food Show activities
• Develops a business plan and sales strategy for the market that ensures attainment of company Produce sales goals and profitability.
• Responsible for the performance and development of the Produce Sales Specialists to assist our Sales team in growth initiatives.
• Assists in the development and implementation of marketing plans as needed.
• Assists Sales Associates in preparation of proposals and presentations.
• Identify successful single-region products to advance the growth of the produce category.
• Develop and coordinate monthly sales promotions in alignment with Marketing schedule, RVP, Purchasing team and Director of Produce sourcing
• Develop & implement local go to market strategy for growth acceleration of the Produce Category
• Evaluate inventory stock against forecast and shelf life, identify opportunities to reduce excess inventory through transfers within network, promotions and bulk sale opportunities. Activities to ensure the development of Private Labels within this category to drive competitive advantage.

• Assist in Identification of innovative products and potential local suppliers in partnership with Purchasing team.
• Collaborate with Marketing and Director of Produce Sourcing to maximize value to the company.
• Rationalization of like/similar and special products within the company’s portfolio based on performance, velocity and customer interest.

Supplier Negotiations for the managed category in Partnership with the Director of Produce Sourcing:

• Achieving Target/Market-leading Costs  
• Developing Rebate and other program development
• Securing Supplier Promotional Support
• Improving Payment/Cash Cycle Term.

Supplier compliance activities for the Produce category.

• Specification sheets & supplier catalogs.
• Food Safety, etc.

Cross-Functional Collaboration with:

• Logistics & Purchasing Teams: Set strategies and tactics for inventory procurement and movements with individuals accountable for daily execution.
• Supply Chain Managers: Collaborate to incorporate regional and local strategies and tactics for inventory levels, product loss/expiration, product availability, new product introduction and product rationalization.

• Operations: Implement local go to market strategies to accelerate growth of the produce category from penetration opportunities to new business development, storage and handling training

About you:

• 3-5 years of experience in sales and purchasing preferred.
• Experience with Microsoft Excel.
• Extensive experience in all aspects of Relationship Management.
• Strong understanding of customer and market dynamics and requirements.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with effective decision-making abilities.
• Proven leadership and ability to drive sales teams.

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