DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

· Ensures that there is a data driven system or matrix for product mix decisions, which includes: review movement reports and customer feedback to guide decisions on which products to discontinue, add or adjust

· Creates systems to evaluate categories ensuring responsiveness to national or regional trends and also to having fully developed selection of tiers where needed. 

· Reviews seasonal data and help coordinate changes in mix for each approaching season and/or event.

· Ensures all fresh food items are systematically cost out accurately prior to going into production. Price points will be set based on category margin goals and price perception when necessary. All costing data will be maintained in a central and organized electronic location. 

· Collaborates with department management and buyers any cost changes.

· Collaborates with Category and Merchandising manager to create cohesive pricing strategy and messaging plans for all fresh food categories. 

· Works with Category and Merchandising manager to develop strong and cohesive promotional plans for all fresh food departments.

· Communicates with department management and buyers about new products and product selection changes.

· Creates timeline and implementation guides for all changes in display, signage replacement, media support and announcements to ensure appropriate promotional presence through all promotional venues.

· Looks for opportunities to do cross-merchandising with other departments.

· Assists with Co-op deals paperwork or specific trouble-shooting as necessary to help good service department managers.

· Participates in development of sales and margin projections as requested. 

· Provides on-going trouble-shooting, margin management and other data resources to each food service department manager. 

· Conducts market research and visits competitors for new product ideas; regularly attends trade shows and other events to remain current on trends. 

· Devises long-term strategies for product category expansions; collaborates with buyers and merchandisers to implement. 

· Develops strategies to effectively address unsuccessful products; creates and oversees a seamless product discontinuation process. 

· Handles all fresh e-commerce website duties in collaboration with IT, Marketing and department managers.

· Communicates with department management and buyers of product selection changes and discontinued items with explanation. 

Other duties as assigned. 

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

· Bachelor’s degree in Merchandising, Business Administration, or related field or equivalent experience.   

· A minimum of one (2) year’s experience and familiarity with natural foods.

· Embodies co-op values through positivity and an eagerness to assist others and further the co-op’s ends; exemplifies the Code of Conduct and SHIP culture.

· Exhibits strong communication and interpersonal skills.

· Adapts to evolving co-op needs, conditions, and work responsibilities.

· Maintains composure in highly stressful or adverse situations. 

· Manages own time, priorities, and resources to achieve goals.

· Receives feedback gracefully. 

ENVIRONMENTAL & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

· Ability to commute between both store locations.

· Ability to stand or sit for long periods at a time. 

· Ability to bend, stoop, reach, kneel, twist, and climb.

· Ability to lift 50 pounds unassisted.

· Availability to work various shifts including evenings and weekends. 

· Consistent and reliable access to transportation.