Merchandise Planner - Produce develops strategies and techniques to increase sales of produce. Analyzes department profits and profit margins of individual items. Being a Merchandise Planner - Produce controls ordering, inventory, and quality of produce. Responsible for increasing business with new and existing customers. Additionally, Merchandise Planner - Produce may require a bachelor's degree in area of specialty. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. To be a Merchandise Planner - Produce typically requires 2 to 4 years of related experience. Gains exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. (Copyright 2024 Salary.com)
Spokane Produce, Inc. is seeking a self-motivated Produce Sales/Merchandiser to represent us in sales efforts. This position is ideal for a self-motivated type of salesperson that can effectively manage his/her workload and produce results. Responsibilities include identifying new prospects, cold calling, establishing relationships with decision makers, following up on sales leads generated by others within the company, pursuing prospects from initial contact through closing and maintaining relationships with customers for future opportunities.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
• Contact customers via phone or site visits to build and maintain good relationships in order to meet and exceed sales goals.
• Calmly and effectively resolve customer requirements.
• Accurately enter customer orders into the system and have orders entered within set time frames according to delivery route schedules.
• Effective account management including: profitable sales; customer service; price and volume management. Manage quantities of product sold vs. warehouse supply. Assist customers with retailing and advertising.
• Operate in a team environment, working closely with sales team and other departments. Constant communication with warehouse and drivers.
• Know the product: seasonal and specials and market accordingly.
• Light collections with customer base when applicable.
• Promote a positive company image and operate under the highest ethical standards.
• Maintain continual awareness of the competitive marketplace.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
• Knowledge and experience within the Fresh Fruits and Vegetables business: in depth knowledge of grow seasons, quality, pairings, and marketing strategies
• Must have 2 years Produce sales/merchandising experience
• Ability to meet goals
• Proficient in use of Microsoft – Word and Excel and Outlook
• Flexibility with schedule and be willing to travel when needed (possible overnight travel)
• Excellent interpersonal skills and positive attitude
• Proven team player, self-motivated, independent thinker
• Clean 3-year driving record. Must be able to meet insurability requirements
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: Retail grocery store experience preferred. Degree not required, but equivalent work experience in retail preferred; two-years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience must be in Produce.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT: PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands:
• Regional traveling
• Occasional lifting
• Some stooping, kneeling, and/or crouching, and significant fine finger dexterity
Must be able to pass a pre-employment criminal background check and drug screen and continue to satisfy our drug testing policy, if offered employment. We are a Federal Contractor and drug free workplace, which includes a prohibition on marijuana use for all employees.
We offer a competitive salary and benefits package including medical/dental/vision/life insurance available first of the month after 60 days, paid time off and 401k with employer match; employee discounts on in-house purchases available on your first day.
Apply today through this site OR apply via our company website at www.spokaneproduce.com.
Spokane Produce, Inc. is an Affirmative Action Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or preferred veteran status.