Position Summary
The Assistant Produce Manager supports the Produce Manager in overseeing all aspects of the produce department, ensuring fresh, high-quality products, strong inventory control, and exceptional customer service. This role helps drive sales, maintain department standards, and develop a strong team while ensuring food safety and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities Operational Execution
- Assist in managing daily produce operations including ordering, receiving, trimming, and merchandising
- Ensure all products meet freshness, quality, and presentation standards
- Maintain proper rotation, culling, and shrink control practices
- Prepare and maintain displays that are full, visually appealing, and seasonally relevant
- Ensure accurate pricing, signage, and product labeling
Customer Service Excellence
- Provide outstanding customer service and product knowledge
- Assist customers with product selection, preparation tips, and special requests
- Resolve customer concerns efficiently and professionally
- Promote produce items through sampling, displays, and suggestive selling
Team Leadership & Development
- Assist in hiring, training, and coaching produce associates
- Provide feedback and reinforce performance expectations
- Promote a positive, team-oriented work environment
- Support scheduling and labor management to meet department needs
Sales & Financial Performance
- Support achievement of sales, gross margin, and shrink targets
- Execute merchandising plans, ads, and promotional displays
- Monitor inventory levels to reduce waste and maximize profitability
- Identify opportunities to increase sales and improve operational efficiency
Food Safety & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and company policies
- Maintain proper handling, storage, and rotation of all produce items
- Follow all health and safety regulations
- Keep department clean, organized, and audit-ready
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Previous produce, grocery, or retail experience preferred
- Supervisory or leadership experience preferred
- Strong knowledge of fresh produce handling and merchandising
- Excellent customer service and communication skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
- Flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift throughout the shift
- Frequently lift up to 40 lbs; occasional heavier lifting with assistance
- Work in varying temperature conditions (sales floor, coolers)
Key Competencies
- Customer Focus
- Product Freshness & Quality Standards
- Team Leadership
- Organization & Time Management
- Attention to Detail
- Problem Solving
