Produce Lead- Green's Natural Foods, Somers

Produce Lead – Green's Natural Foods, Somers

The Produce Lead is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the produce department, ensuring the highest standards of product quality, freshness, merchandising, and customer service. This position leads department staff, manages inventory and ordering, and serves as a key holder responsible for opening and closing the store as scheduled. The Produce Lead plays a vital role in maintaining an attractive, well‑stocked department that reflects the store's commitment to organic, natural, and locally sourced products.

• Oversee daily operations of the produce department, including stocking, merchandising, product rotation, and display maintenance.
• Ensure produce displays are attractive, abundant, and aligned with company merchandising standards.
• Monitor product quality, freshness, and shelf life, removing damaged or unsellable items promptly.
• Maintain department cleanliness, organization, and food safety standards at all times.
• Ensure accurate pricing, signage, and product labeling throughout the department.

• Monitor inventory levels and product movement to maintain optimal stock levels.
• Prepare, review, and submit produce orders to ensure product availability while minimizing shrink and waste.
• Receive and verify deliveries for accuracy and quality.
• Work with vendors and store management to source high‑quality organic, local, and seasonal products.
• Conduct inventory counts and assist with department audits as needed.
• Lead, train, and support produce department team members.
• Delegate daily tasks and ensure responsibilities are completed efficiently.
• Provide coaching, feedback, and support to help staff meet performance expectations.
• Foster a positive, team‑oriented work environment focused on customer service and operational excellence.

• Provide exceptional customer service and product knowledge.
• Assist customers with product selection, storage recommendations, and preparation suggestions.
• Address customer concerns and inquiries in a professional and timely manner.
• Promote the benefits of organic, local, and sustainably grown produce.

• Serve as a designated key holder and trusted member of store leadership.
• Open and close the store as scheduled, including unlocking and securing the building, conducting facility checks, and activating or disarming security systems.
• Perform cash handling responsibilities, including opening tills, balancing registers, preparing deposits, and completing closing paperwork when assigned.
• Ensure the store is clean, stocked, and prepared for business during opening shifts and properly secured during closing shifts.
• Act as Manager on Duty when assigned, providing leadership and decision‑making support in the absence of store management.
• Respond appropriately to operational issues, customer concerns, and emergencies during assigned shifts.

• Follow and enforce all food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety procedures.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, health regulations, and operational standards.
• Maintain a safe environment for customers and employees.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of 1–2 years of produce, grocery, retail, or natural foods experience preferred.
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
• Knowledge of produce handling, rotation, merchandising, and inventory management.
• Familiarity with organic, local, and seasonal produce products.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize multiple responsibilities.

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and lift throughout the workday.
• Ability to regularly lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in refrigerated environments and handle frequent movement of produce boxes and displays.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

• Passion for organic food, local agriculture, and sustainable food systems.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Positive attitude and customer‑focused approach.
• Dependable, self‑motivated, and capable of leading by example.

The Produce Lead is a key member of the store leadership team, helping ensure the success of both the produce department and overall store operations through excellent product standards, customer service, and reliable opening and closing management.