Fresh Merchandise Operations Specialist

Acosta Group - San Antonio, TX

Full-time - Mid Level

San Antonio, TX

About the position

The Fresh Merchandise Operations Specialist plays a crucial role in driving success within the retail space, particularly focusing on fresh food categories. This position requires a dedicated individual who will collaborate closely with major retailers to ensure maximum sales and profits while maintaining high standards of quality and member satisfaction. The specialist will be responsible for implementing comprehensive training programs for retail club teams, emphasizing food safety, quality assurance, and merchandising excellence. This role is pivotal in evaluating and monitoring the performance of club teams, providing constructive coaching and feedback to foster continuous improvement. In addition to training and performance management, the Fresh Merchandise Operations Specialist will embrace technology to optimize operational efficiency. Proficiency in digital tools, including the Microsoft Office suite and data analysis tools, is essential for success in this role. The specialist will also need to stay ahead of industry trends and innovations within the fresh categories, continually honing their skills to remain competitive in the evolving retail landscape. Compliance with company standards and regulatory requirements governing food safety certification and sanitation practices is a critical aspect of this position. The role requires exceptional influencing skills to align club teams with existing and new standards and policies, promoting agility and adaptability. The specialist will identify opportunities for process improvement in fresh food operations, collaborating with club teams and management to implement strategic changes that enhance efficiency and profitability. Effective communication with club managers and stakeholders is vital, as the specialist will provide regular updates on training initiatives, performance metrics, and operational matters. Documentation is another key responsibility, as the specialist must maintain meticulous records of all training activities, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Flexibility and readiness to travel to various retail locations within the market to deliver training sessions and provide on-site support are also essential. The specialist will work synergistically with fellow trainers and club personnel to uphold consistency in training methodologies and operational standards across markets, all while championing the delivery of fresh food operations that meet or exceed member expectations for quality and freshness.

Responsibilities

• Implement comprehensive training programs for retail club teams focusing on fresh food operations, including food safety and quality assurance.
• Evaluate and monitor the performance of club teams in executing fresh food operations, providing constructive coaching and feedback after each visit.
• Utilize digital tools and platforms to optimize operational efficiency, requiring proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and data analysis tools.
• Stay updated on industry trends and innovations within fresh categories to remain competitive.
• Ensure compliance with company standards and regulatory requirements for food safety certification and sanitation practices.
• Influence and align club teams with existing and new standards and policies, fostering agility and adaptability.
• Identify opportunities for enhancing fresh food operations processes and collaborate with club teams to implement strategic changes.
• Maintain open communication with club managers and stakeholders, providing updates on training initiatives and performance metrics.
• Document all training activities meticulously, including attendance records and performance evaluations.
• Travel to various retail locations to deliver training sessions and provide on-site support to club teams.
• Collaborate with fellow trainers and club personnel to maintain consistency in training methodologies and operational standards.
• Champion the delivery of fresh food operations that meet or exceed member expectations for quality and freshness.
• Lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to excellence in fresh food operations and nurturing a positive team culture.

Requirements

• 3 to 5 years of hands-on experience in retail fresh food areas (such as Meat & Seafood, Produce, Bakery, or Prepared Foods), restaurant, bakery, meat processing, quality assurance, or a related field.
• 3 to 5 years of supervisory/management experience, showcasing leadership skills and a proven ability to drive results.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence and support senior leaders in implementing best practices.
• Track record of excellence in a fresh food retail setting with a keen understanding of department financial objectives.
• Adaptability and resilience in the face of workplace change, with a proactive mindset toward innovation and continuous improvement.
• Strong presentation skills for effective communication with diverse audiences, and proficiency in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Comfortable navigating digital platforms such as Teams and Zoom.
• Valid driver's license and insurance for travel requirements.

Benefits

• Medical, dental and vision insurance
• Company-paid life insurance, short-term and long-term disability
• 401k program
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) program