Hybrid Value Added Coordinator bei Willimantic Food Co-op Careers

Description

Overview

The role of the Value Added Coordinator is to create sales and margin growth for both the Produce and the Grab & Go departments while reducing waste of culled produce and to meet consumer demand for last minute meal solutions and convenience shoppers. This position is responsible for innovative product development and plays a key role in delivering convenience, freshness, and creativity to our customers by planning, producing, and merchandising a compelling selection of ready-to-eat items.

Essential Functions

Key Responsibilities

• Design and produce ready-to-eat items for the Grab & Go case in a limited kitchen environment, e.g. charcuterie snack packs, parfait cups, bagel & cream cheese sandwiches, etc.
• Plan and produce a consistent stock of seasonal cut fruit and vegetable options for Grab & Go and convenient meal solutions
• Manage the Co-op’s hot soup program
• Coordinate the packaging and labeling of prepared food items supplied by outside vendors as needed
• Design and maintain stock lists and par levels for all value added items 
• Assist with ordering and inventory management
• Coordinate and execute a production schedule that supports consistent stock levels and responds to seasonality and changes in customer demand
• Manage pricing and margin of all value added products in alignment with the Co-op’s financial goals
• Maintain a clean, orderly, safe, and sanitary workstation
• Maintain display areas for visual appeal, cleanliness, and signage
• Ensure quality control standards are met
• Work closely with Grocery Manager to create and test recipes and manage various programs.
• Work closely with Grocery Manager to continuously adapt, improve and document standard operating procedures.
• Train other staff as needed to support the Co-op’s Value Added Program (VAP).
• Contribute suggestions and solutions for growing and improving the Co-op’s Value Added program
• Create a bright, colorful selection in the grab and go cooler that compels shoppers to slow down and take notice. 
• Identify underperforming items and quickly move to replace with something new.
• Regularly check competitor’s prices on similar items.
• Follow all Servsafe and food safety protocols to ensure customers safety.
• Coordinate with the Marketing team to create signage, recipes, and promotions on sale items and cross merchandizing. 
• Offer samples of whole and VAP items for customers to sample.

Teamwork/Problem Solving

• Work cooperatively with other staff, both within the department and other departments to achieve overall Co-op needs.
• Contribute to an environment of harmony, positivity, and professionalism in all interactions.
• Accept and offer feedback and suggestions openly and respectfully.
• Talk directly to people involved. 

Other

• Participate in quarterly inventory counts.
• Attend department and all-staff meetings.
• Assist and direct working members as needed.
• Perform other tasks as directed by the management team.

Customer Service

• Deliver A+ customer service, for every customer, every time!
• Become familiar with co-op policies and products in order to answer customer questions. Refer unresolved questions or problems to MOD or other appropriate staff.
• Ensure a welcoming store environment that reflects the Co-op’s values and purpose through supporting and advancing existing procedures and policies.
• Assist customers with product questions, in prompt, friendly, courteous manner, referring them to other staff when necessary.
• Role model friendly, engaged customer service for staff and provide excellent internal service to staff and peers.
• Be responsible for understanding and practicing the guidelines in our Customer Service Training Packet and the Zingerman’s customer service videos.
• Explain store policies and procedures clearly, completely and concisely to all customers.
• Answer and route phone calls, take and route messages as needed.
• Uphold security procedures including theft, disorderly customers, emergencies, proper opening and closing procedures.
• Report customer suggestions, comments, and complaints to the Management Team.

Technology & Tools Used:

• POS – printing signs 

Training & Development Opportunities:

• Cross training in Front End, Grocery, and Wellness departments.
• Servsafe certification
• Attend regional and national fresh food conferences and workshops

Requirements

Qualifications:

•     Experience in food preparation or culinary production; retail or natural food store background preferred
•     Knowledge of food safety standards and practices
•     Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and adjust priorities quickly.
•     Creativity in recipe and product development with an eye for merchandising.
•     Ability to work independently and as a part of a collaborative team.
•     Commitment to providing healthy, accessible food options and minimizing food waste.

Physical job requirements:

•     Ability to repetitively twist, bend, stretch, and reach.
•     Standing continuously for up to 8 hours with one 45 minute break about halfway through shift
•     Walking around the store frequently; to and from the outdoor parking lot occasionally
•     Lifting and/or carrying up to 30lbs frequently, up to 50lbs occasionally
•     Gross manipulation constantly 
•     Regular use of kitchen tools, knives, and equipment
•     Stooping occasionally
•     Operating a touchscreen cash register constantly, screen at shoulder/chest height
•     Pushing/pulling occasionally (grocery carts, mopping with rolling mop bucket)

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement:

Willimantic Food Co-op is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. We believe in providing equal opportunities for all employees and applicants, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment.