Grocery Manager – Rutland Area Food Co-Op

Full-time

The Rutland Area Food Co-Op is looking to hire a natural foods Grocery Manager. This is a great opportunity to be an active part of our growing community, while also helping to strengthen our relationships with our patrons. This is a full-time position with a salary range from $22-$24 per hour. Benefits include paid time off and a 20% discount on all in-store purchases (bulk items can be purchased at cost). Purpose: To ensure that the Grocery department meets sales, margin, and inventory turns goals; to manage relationships with vendors by negotiating pricing, delivery, and payment terms; to serve as the direct contact for promotional programs; and to create a hospitable environment that welcomes coworkers, customers, owners, and members of the community. Commitment: Rutland Co-op is committed to being an organization free from discrimination. We seek out, welcome and celebrate people with diverse identities to participate in our community-owned cooperative business structure. Responsibilities: CUSTOMER SERVICE Assist customers with product questions in a prompt, and courteous manner, referring them to other staff when necessary. Knowledgeable about all Grocery products. Help customers place special orders. Receives customer product requests. DEPARTMENT MAINTENANCE Coordinate storage of items and replenish shelves as needed. Ensure that retail and storage areas are clean, orderly condition, meeting health department standards. Prepare for and ensure accuracy of inventory counts. MERCHANDISING Ensure shelves are fully stocked and rotated to ensure freshness. Ensure displays and shelves are clean, well-organized, and aesthetically pleasing. Ensure endcaps are displayed and rotated on a regular basis. Establish and uphold standards and procedures of receiving, stocking and storing of Grocery product line. Supports all relevant promotional vehicles (BASICS program, Coop Deals, in-store sales, member sales, etc.). PURCHASING & PLANNING Serves as National Cooperative Grocers (NCG) Promotions Liaison. Replenishment Buyer for Grocery Product Line (does NOT include meat, cheese, refrigerated, frozen or bulk) Communicate sales plans with Marketing staff. Ensure all end-caps are planned and merchandised for all sales periods. Coordinate special sales and promotions with reps, smaller distributors, small vendors. Monitor purchases to ensure adherence to budget. CATEGORY MANAGEMENT Follow margin and pricing strategies for Grocery product line. Work alongside the General Manager to ensure product selection is on trend and in demand. Track sales, margins, and performance of Grocery Product line. Β  OTHER Opportunity (no obligation) to attend NCG meetings/conferences as well as trade shows if desired. QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS Communication – effective interpersonal communication with staff and vendors. Experience negotiating with vendors. Experience with retail categories and merchandising. Demonstrated ability to follow through on commitments. Open to input/feedback on work performance. Open to giving input/feedback. Self-Driven/Motivated throughout shift. Knowledge or interest in learning about natural foods, produce, local vendors. Demonstrated ability to handle multiple demands, stay calm, and prioritize. Administrative skills with attention to detail Ability to lift 50 pounds continuously.