Ripening Manager

Job Description: Ripening Manager

Reports To: Distribution Center Manager / National Ripening Manager
FLSA Status: Exempt

Position Summary

The Ripening Manager oversees daily ripening operations within the distribution center, ensuring product quality, optimal shelf life, and timely order fulfillment. This role works closely with customers, vendors, and internal teams to forecast demand, maintain operational standards, and ensure compliance with company procedures.

Key Responsibilities

• Forecast ripening needs based on customer demand, historical trends, and operational capacity.
• Manage ripening cycles to meet demand and maintain product quality and shelf life.
• Inspect incoming product to ensure quality standards are met.
• Communicate supply, demand, and operational changes to customers and distribution center leadership.
• Maintain sanitation standards and preventive maintenance programs for ripening rooms and equipment.
• Monitor customer feedback, document issues, and implement corrective actions.
• Lead and support a diverse workforce while maintaining safety, quality, and operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of banana ripening, quality, maturation, and supply chain operations.
• Experience with distribution center operations and workforce leadership.
• Strong planning, organizational, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel; WMS experience preferred.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and meet strict deadlines.
• Material handling equipment (MHE) certification preferred or required as applicable.

Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.
• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to operate material handling equipment, including electric pallet jacks, sit-down forklifts, and reach trucks.
• Ability to work in a distribution center with varying temperatures.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Additional Information

This job description outlines the general responsibilities and expectations of the role. Additional duties may be assigned as business needs require.