Produce Department Manager

Job Description:

The Produce Manager is responsible for the produce department operations, under the direction of the Store Manager and guidance of the Director of Produce Merchandising.  The Produce Manager's task is to ensure that the department achieves economic goals and that customers are afforded fresh products at fair prices in a clean, friendly atmosphere.

Essential Functions:

•           Greets each customer, using names whenever possible; assists customers with needs or requests; extends thanks to each customer when appropriate; constructively handles customer relations.

•           Controls inventory; orders product; assures freshness, provides ample supply and variety.

•           Groups and displays merchandise so as to promote department sales.

•           Develops and/or applies pricing policy within required guidelines; monitors billings.

•           Works in conjunction with Store Manager on hiring, evaluation and overall supervision of department personnel; schedules labor within required guidelines.

•           Responsible for department security and safety; monitors and guarantees proper sanitation, department appearance, and cleanliness; ensures that department equipment is kept in good working order and properly maintained.

•           Observes changes in the state of the industry for his/her professional development and betterment.

•           Identifies and implements training and development needs for subordinates.

•           Maintains an open line of communication to the Store Manager, keeping him/her current on department matters.

•           Maintains friendly and respectful decorum at all times toward customers, co-workers, vendors, and all others.

•           Handles, in a positive manner, those inherent levels of stress associated with employment situations.

Other Responsibilities:

• Complies with laws/regulations and company policies including those regarding confidentiality, honesty, and business ethics.
• Maintains responsive and cooperative relationships with supervisors, co-workers, vendors, customers, and other personnel.
• Regularly checks in on the competition identify new trends in the industry.
• Accomplishes assigned tasks in an efficient and timely manner within standards established by the Store Manager.
• Considers advice and cooperates with recommendations made by the Deli Field Specialist on actions designed to improve department operations and financial results.
• Participates in own training and professional development.
• Demonstrates and ensures that the company "Please the customer first" credo is observed both in spirit and in action.
• Maintains for self and ensures that all department staff have current, valid Food Handlers Cards from the local Health Dept.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Current Food Handler Card
• Minimum 2 years produce experience required.
• Minimum 1 year experience in charge of full produce department operation.
• Sufficient mathematical proficiency and analytical business skills to perform required functions in areas such as budget development/management, financial analysis, and written and verbal communication.
• Profit Management experience (gross profit, labor, etc)
• Creativity in product presentation, merchandising, and selling
• Product knowledge (including variety, buying, preparation, and pricing)
• Supervisory experience (including directing work, scheduling, training, and evaluating)
• Willingness to make a commitment to stability in the position
• Ability and willingness to work a varied schedule including days, evenings, weekends, & holidays.
• Ability to work quickly and independently.                 
• Exceptional customer service skills and training.          
• Consistent standing, stooping, bending, and lifting.  Ability to lift 50 lbs. occasionally.
• Constant arm, hand, and wrist motion.