Commodity & Sales Manager

JOB TITLE:                        Commodity & Sales Manager

STATUS:                            Exempt

WORK SCHEDULE:         Regular/Full time/Varied Hours/Weekends (if necessary)

LOCATION:                        California (On site)

SALARY:                             Starting Salary $ DOE

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Commodity & Sales Manager is responsible for managing both existing and new business development within an assigned customer base while executing commodity management strategies that support profitability, customer satisfaction, and long-term growth.

This role requires deep knowledge of the produce industry; strong analytical, communication, and relationship‑building skills; and the ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced environment with daily cross-departmental coordination.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Sell and service assigned customer accounts and regions, generating orders and participating in active phone traffic with accuracy, attention to detail, and a positive, professional demeanor.
• Develop, execute, and maintain sales strategies for designated accounts across all commodities, grades, and sizes.
• Drive both short‑ and long‑term results using best‑in‑class sales practices, performance metrics, and continuous improvement methods to maximize profitability.
• Gain incremental sales and revenue by expanding business with existing customers and identifying new account opportunities.
• Maintain accurate and timely customer information within CRM systems.
• Address customer complaints, claims, arrival issues, and accounts receivable matters by following internal procedures and PACA guidelines.
• Collaborate with customers, internal teams, and accounting to resolve deductions and enforce payment terms.
• Attend customer meetings, trade shows, field visits, and industry events as required to support sales initiatives and strengthen relationships.
• Manage assigned commodities by coordinating with sales, field harvest, production, logistics, and inventory teams to ensure proper product execution and service levels.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of market trends, pricing, supply conditions, competitive activity, and customer expectations.
• Ensure compliance with company pricing models and program requirements.
• Track and analyze market data and trends to guide tactical decisions, account reviews, demand forecasts, and product strategies for existing and new items.
• Review daily/weekly production reports and maintain appropriate inventory levels while controlling product age and quality.
• Develop and manage analytical tools, reports, and forecasting methods that support product management and sales optimization.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety, security, and regulatory requirements across all growers, partners, and supply chain functions.
• Provide daily communication and coordination among field operations, harvest, production, logistics, and inventory departments.
• Work collaboratively with cross-functional partners to support company initiatives, product launches, or operational improvements.
• Manage assigned projects and contribute to strategy development as needed.
• Support, assist, and cross-train with other internal functions to ensure team continuity and performance.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

SKILL / QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS             

·     Minimum 5 years of experience in sales, commodity management, or produce industry account management.

·     Strong working knowledge of PACA rules, USDA and CFIA protocols, and produce industry regulations.

·     Demonstrated ability to develop, grow, and manage key customer accounts.

·     Excellent negotiation skills and proficiency in both phone‑based and in‑person sales interactions.

·     Strong analytical skills with the ability to evaluate data, identify trends, and support data-driven decision-making.

·     Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint); advanced Excel a plus.

·     Functional experience with ERP and EDI platforms (e.g., Famous Software, iTrade).

·     Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple time-sensitive tasks.

·     Excellent written and verbal communication skills across all organizational levels.

·     Ability to adapt quickly, remain flexible, and perform effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

·     Self-motivated, dependable, team-oriented, and committed to a high work ethic.

Nothing in this job description restricts the company’s rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibility to this job at any time.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position is based on-site in an office environment within an active produce sales and operations setting. The role requires extensive use of computers, telephones, and web-based systems while handling high-volume orders and time-sensitive customer requests.

Occasional travel may be required for:

·        Field tours to observe commodity production.

·        Trade shows or customer meetings.

·        Company meetings or training sessions.

Field tours may involve exposure to outdoor environmental conditions including heat, cold, uneven terrain, and dust. Appropriate safety protocols and PPE must be adhered to. Work hours may vary depending on business needs, including early mornings, extended hours, and occasional weekends during peak seasons.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYER

The Company provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, pregnancy, or any other factor that may be protected by law. This policy extends to all employees and includes all aspects of the employment relationship.