Grocery Buyer

JOB DESCRIPTION

OVERVIEW: Riverwards Produce is a group of produce focused markets in Philadelphia

The Grocery Buyer position at Riverwards Produce serves as the primary executor of the department’s buying strategies. They also assist with specialized projects pertaining to merchandising, vendor relations, and cost saving. They have an expert knowledge of grocery stock and inventory tools. They’re able to field inquiries and suggestions from both customers and staff. They coordinate frequently with the Grocery Manager and other store buyers to ensure proper product variance, aesthetic coherence, and protocol regarding daily functions of the Grocery team.

Most importantly, they’re responsible for timely, space-efficient, and movement-informed purchasing. They’re responsible for proper receiving, processing, and storage of Grocery deliveries.

Reports to: Grocery Manager

Responsibilities:

• Coordinates the purchase and procurement of grocery orders according to producer and management-imposed deadlines
• Collaborates with the Grocery Manager to plan seasonal and rotating merchandising plans
• Conducts training for Grocery staff in collaboration with the Grocery Department Manager to ensure effective job performance and excellent customer service
• Stands in for the Grocery Manager when they are not scheduled
• Responsible for a well-organized and clean grocery backstock area
• Executes sales-based purchasing and lean inventory practices 
• Ensure that all Grocery items are properly entered into the POS system and available for purchase
• Maintains vendor relationships to coordinate procurement logistics and obtain credits
• Aids in setting category product mixes
• Maintains expert knowledge of POS operations
• Performs floor duties including receiving, restocking, and cleaning
• Ensures invoices are notated correctly and promptly submitted 
• Participates in Grocery department communications and updates
• Responsible for maintaining category profit margin goals

Requirements:

• Experience receiving, processing, and merchandising grocery in a retail setting 
• A desire to greet and engage customers and foster relationships with regulars
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs and spend 8+ hours standing and walking up and down stairs
• Passion for the principles of sustainable food and farming
• Flexibility in scheduling, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays
• A diligent approach to safety and sanitation - ServSafe (or analogous) certification a plus
• A team player with a willingness to jump in and help with all store tasks
• Ability to roll with the punches of a rapidly growing start-up business
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Detail orientation and ability to communicate easily and often with team and managers
• Flexibility in scheduling, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Experience receiving, processing, and/or merchandising specialty grocery in a retail setting 
• A positive attitude and an enthusiastic desire to provide storewide customer service
• Working knowledge of local food makers

COMPENSATION: This position is full-time. Compensation begins at $18/hr. Riverwards Produce provides a 20% discount on all store products.  Benefits include health, dental and medical insurance (for full time employees), paid parental leave, Employee Assistance Program, Paid Time Off, and flexible scheduling.