Director of Produce - #8554S

Are you a seasoned leader with a passion for fresh produce? Our client, a family-owned industry leader renowned for exceptional quality and customer commitment, is seeking a dynamic Director of Produce to oversee all aspects of their fresh produce operations. This pivotal role focuses on driving profitability, ensuring operational excellence, and managing teams across multiple locations, including warehouse staff and produce managers.

The ideal candidate is an experienced professional with expertise in produce procurement, supply chain operations, and team leadership. You’ll build strong supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and inspire teams to achieve business objectives while upholding the company’s culture of teamwork, respect, and innovation.

This role offers strong compensation, long-term stability, growth potential, and the chance to thrive in a supportive environment that values fresh ideas. If you’re ready to bring your expertise and leadership to a company where your contributions truly matter, we want to hear from you!

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Leadership:

• Develops and implements the strategic vision for the produce department, aligning with company objectives.
• Establishes performance metrics, monitors progress, and ensures departmental targets are achieved.
• Leads, mentors, and develops the produce team, including buyers, warehouse staff, produce managers, merchandisers, and quality assurance personnel.

Procurement Leadership:

• Serves as the primary individual responsible for sourcing and procuring fresh produce.
• Negotiates contracts with domestic and international suppliers to secure the best quality and pricing.
• Builds and maintains strong relationships with growers, distributors, and supply chain partners.
• Ensures supplier compliance with company standards, including food safety, sustainability, and ethical practices.

Team Management:

• Oversees and manages warehouse staff and produce managers across multiple locations, ensuring operational efficiency and adherence to safety protocols.
• Provides training, guidance, and performance feedback to maintain high standards of quality and service.
• Fosters a collaborative, motivated work environment that emphasizes teamwork and accountability.

Quality and Merchandising:

• Enforces strict quality control standards to ensure premium product offerings.
• Collaborates with merchandising and marketing teams to design promotions and seasonal displays.
• Ensures consistent and appealing presentation of produce in retail locations to enhance the customer experience.

Inventory and Financial Oversight:

• Manages inventory to minimize waste and maintain optimal stock levels.
• Develops and monitors the produce department budget, including cost of goods, pricing strategies, and profitability metrics.
• Analyzes sales data and market trends to identify growth opportunities and improve operational efficiency.

Market Analysis and Innovation:

• Monitors industry trends, consumer preferences, and emerging products.
• Introduces new produce items that align with customer demand and market innovations.
• Tracks competitor activity and adjusts strategies to maintain a competitive position.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Agriculture, or related field.
• 7–10+ years of leadership experience in produce procurement, management, or a related field.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Comprehensive knowledge of the fresh produce supply chain, seasonality, and market dynamics.
• Proven ability to lead and manage large teams, including warehouse staff and multi-location managers.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills across all levels of the organization.
• Proficiency in supply chain management software and data analysis tools.

Apply today and take the next step in your produce leadership career.

This Job has a $1,000 Referral Reward!