Retail Merchandising Representative

Job Overview

The Retail Merchandising Representative is responsible for overseeing the execution of merchandising projects across a defined geographic area. This includes managing UNFI Shelf Services employees, vendors, brokers, retailers, and third‑party merchandisers to ensure timely and accurate completion of initiatives such as new store setups, full resets, remodels, ad hoc projects, and in‑store execution programs. The Retail Merchandising Representative may also act as a sales consultant, promoting UNFI products and Professional Services while in‑store.

Minneapolis & Saint‑Paul, MN

• Interact face to face with retailers to determine reset projects and create daily project plans using Shelf Services skills and technical solutions. Coordinate and place orders for in‑house equipment and racks from suppliers to ensure timely shipments.
• Supervise and instruct 3rd Party and Retail Merchandising staff in the use of implementation of Planograms. Initiate retailer and 3rd Party merchandiser training and provide ongoing training as needed.
• Lead project teams and partners (vendors, brokers, third‑party) to maximize profitability. Monitor and report territory P&L performance.
• Conduct regular retailer visits to evaluate program effectiveness, provide feedback, and influence assortment decisions.
• Independently resolve conflicts between retail, regional teams, UNFI, and vendor/broker partners.
• Serve as the Primary contact for customers and merchandising projects. Responsible for maintaining effective business relations with all customers and UNFI Stakeholders.
• Regularly communicate with UNFI Sales Leaders regarding competitor activity, sales opportunities, customer requests and any other significant issues.
• Seize opportunities to increase sales through creative merchandising techniques. Sell promotional and sales programs as assigned. Follow through on customer product requests.
• Regularly exercise discretion and independent judgement in project planning and the selling of Professional Services. Assist with presentations and positively engage customers on the full Professional Services Portfolio to strengthen customer/UNFI relationship.
• Complete required documentation accurately and timely. Stay current on Shelf Services Technology and tools.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• High School graduate required;
  Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
• Valid Driver’s License is necessary.
• Auto Insurance levels that meet UNFI requirements.

• 3-5 years related experience in Retail or Distribution.
• Prior customer service experience in a retail setting.
• Food related product experience desired.
• Bilingual – Spanish a plus.

• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Utilize merchandising skills and available reporting to maximize sales with or without the use of planograms, or to amend layout changes and adapt at store level.
• Possess good leadership skills and ability to supervise the work of others effectively.
• Ability to motivate and work with others to achieve desired results.
• Strong organizational skills, time management skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to read, understand and implement planograms.
• Basic to intermediate computer skills involving Microsoft Suite of Software.
• Ability to work independently.
• Good judgment is required for this position as there may be times when direct supervision may not be immediately available.

On‑Site Role

• This position requires the associate to perform all duties at one of our UNFI locations, such as a customer/account, distribution center or office.

• Travel is required up to 95% for this position.

• Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 40 lbs., including boxes of product, promotional materials, and merchandising components.
• Ability to drive to and from customer accounts in city, rural, and expressway conditions, including during periods of inclement weather.
• Ability to set up in‑store displays, fixtures, shelving, and product, including tasks such as:
  • Using hand and finger dexterity to manipulate small parts, shelf clips, rack fittings,…