Produce Department Head

The Turnip Truck is a local natural grocery store dedicated to offering fresh, local, and wholesome foods to our community since 2001. Our mission is to cultivate a nourishing environment where our collective community discovers healthy, distinctive, and local products, receives a warm welcome, and finds the resources to be their best selves. We uphold values of integrity, respect, excellence, and passion.

Rooted in a passion for wellness and sustainability, The Turnip Truck exists to nourish our communities by offering the highest quality local, natural and organic food available while supporting farmers, artisans and other small businesses from around the region.

OBJECTIVE:

The individual will be responsible for ensuring an organized and smoothly run produce department. They will oversee all aspects of the produce department, including sales, inventory management, daily operations and team leadership. They will be responsible for driving sales growth, tracking trends and product movement, and ensuring a high standard of quality and freshness for our customers. Will foster an engaged, motivated and diverse team member base aligned with the company’s missions and values.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Financial:

• Budget Management: Manage budgets for the produce department, ensuring expenses are within allocated limits and identifying opportunities for cost-saving measures.
• Sales Analysis: Analyze sales reports and trends to identify opportunities for growth, adjust inventory levels accordingly, and implement strategies to maximize profitability.
• Profitability Optimization: Implement pricing strategies, promotions, and product placement techniques to drive sales and enhance overall profitability.

1. Operations:

• Inventory Control: Oversee inventory levels, conduct regular stock assessments, and ensure accurate product rotation to minimize waste and maintain freshness.
• Supply Chain Management: Coordinate with suppliers and logistics teams to ensure timely deliveries, manage receiving processes, and maintain proper storage conditions for produce.
• Merchandising: Design visually appealing displays, ensure proper signage and labeling of products, and implement strategies to highlight seasonal offerings and promotions.
• Quality Assurance: Enforce strict quality control standards, conduct regular inspections of produce for freshness and appearance, and implement corrective measures as needed.
• Health and Safety Compliance: Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, sanitation standards, and occupational health guidelines to maintain a clean and safe working environment.

1. Culture:

• Team Leadership: Conduct daily huddles to align on goals, discuss priorities, and recognize achievements, promoting a sense of unity and shared purpose.
• Employee Engagement: Prioritize monthly one-on-one meetings with team members, providing feedback, coaching, and support to enhance individual performance and accountability. Encourage open communication and active participation in decision-making processes, empowering team members to contribute ideas and solutions.
• Customer Service Excellence: Emphasize the importance of delivering exceptional customer service through personalized interactions, product knowledge, and problem-solving skills. Lead by example in addressing customer inquiries and concerns with empathy and professionalism, ensuring a positive shopping experience for all patrons.
• Cleanliness Standards: Set clear expectations for cleanliness and organization within the produce department, conducting regular inspections and providing constructive feedback to maintain high standards of hygiene and presentation. Empower team members to take ownership of their workspaces and contribute to a clean and inviting shopping environment.

NON-ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Performs all related duties as assigned

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Previous experience in produce management or related retail management roles.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret financial reports and sales data.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities, with attention to detail.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire team members.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices in produce handling and storage.
• Proficiency in inventory management systems and Microsoft Office applications.
• Commitment to providing exceptional customer service and maintaining high cleanliness standards.