Manager of Fresh Departments

Wakefern Food Corp. is the largest retailer-owned cooperative in the United States and supports its co-operative members' retail operations, trading under the Shop Rite®, Price Rite®, The Fresh Grocer®, Dearborn Markets®, Fairway Market®, Gourmet Garage® and DiBruno Bros. ® banners.

Employing an innovative approach to wholesale business services, Wakefern focuses on helping the independent retailer compete in a big business world. Providing the tools entrepreneurs need to stay a step ahead of the competition, Wakefern’s co-operative members benefit from the company’s extensive portfolio of services, including innovative technology, private label development, and best in class procurement practices.

The Manager of Fresh Merchandising/Retail Operations is responsible for leading and optimizing the fresh departments (produce, floral, meat, seafood, deli, and bakery) across retail locations. This leader acts as the primary liaison between Retail Operations, Fresh Procurement Divisions and Membership, while leading a staff of retail support. This role ensures consistent execution of merchandising strategies, operation standards and compliance with food safety regulations to deliver an exceptional customer experience and drive sales growth.

This position is located in Edison, NJ.

• Demonstrate a full understanding of divisional goals and operation metrics inclusive of Sales, Gross Profit, Own Brand Penetration, Customer Count, Product Trends, Supplies and Shrink
• Act as the liaison to align business needs between Retail Operations perishable supervisors and Procurement divisions.
• Provide direction for all fresh execution at retail; and streamline the process upstream for reporting/committee requested feedback
• Drive alignment in retail best practices to support breakeven or positive department P&L’s
• Develop member/store assessments to support financial health of that specific member.
• Lead fresh integration for any new member joining the WFC Co-op
• Preparation of project plans and project administration.
• Provide transparency into ongoing business requests for operational support services.
• Understanding project prioritization and approval processes.
• Explain and support QA policies and standards.
• Act as coach, mentor and advisor
• Evaluate team members’ performance and provide ongoing feedback
• Identify opportunities for Associate development to benefit Associates and support business objectives
• Ensure team has specific training guidelines and strategy to achieve desired results at retail
• Support new store openings, remodels, and special projects related to fresh merchandising.
• Project talent needs and define strategy for developing a talent pipeline
• Remain current on industry specific policies and emerging trends.
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and customer-first mindset.

• Minimum 5 years of supervisor experience or the equivalent combination of knowledge, experience, and training.
• Minimum 5 years working with perishable departments
• Four year college degree is preferred.
• Procurement and retail experience a plus.
• Knowledge and experience within various departments.
• Experience in strategy planning to improve departmental results.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong technical, analytical, leadership, customer service skills as demonstrated by previous work experience
• Ability to engage, inspire and influence others
• Vendor and relationship management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to interact professionally with all levels within the organization.
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple assignments, and competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Valid driver’s license

• Ability to sit/stand in front of a computer for long periods of time.
• Ability to travel to retail and member locations, as required.
• Some overnights may be required
• Work a hybrid schedule as established by company (4 days on-site with the option of working 1 day remotely)

• Think Strategically
  :
  Create a compelling vision, develop a strategy and empower others to achieve it
• Influence Others
  :
  The…