Fresh Buyer - Produce

Job Overview

This position is responsible for order placement and inventory management of critical product lines through the proper use of purchasing software and other analytical tools. Other focus areas include managing in-stock positions for all assigned suppliers to maximize service level and profitability while minimizing shrink and aged inventory. Fresh buyers collaborate with Merchandisers, Sales, Vendors, and Operations to better service the customer.

This is a remote position, and our day-to-day working environment is based on trust and encourages cross-functional team communication.

• Maintain targeted outcome KPIs by identifying and resolving service-level and inventory related issues through analytical tools.
• Review and analyze daily order placement for critical suppliers through our buying software.
• Utilize knowledge of sales history, market conditions, and seasonal trends to assist in accurate forecasting.
• Utilize reports to ensure item and vendor maintenance is accurate in the buying software.
• Maximize inventory profitability by analyzing:
  • Forecast Accuracy
  • Overstock inventory
  • Aging Inventory
  • Forward buy opportunities
  • Potential Shrink
• Address and resolve any shipping or receiving-related problems.
• Communicate any inventory-related issues to all affected parties.
• Train and mentor new team members.
• Meet deadlines and completes special projects as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• A high school diploma or GED required.
• Bachelor's degree in a related field preferred.

• 3+ years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
• Knowledge of basic buying/purchasing principles.
• Experience with Distribution Industry preferred.
• Experience in Food Industry preferred.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills that aid in working within diverse environments.
• Ability to analyze and solve problems.
• Ability to use independent judgment and to manage and impart confidential information.
• Strong organizational and planning skills.
• Ability to prioritize heavy workloads and deadlines.
• Ability to recognize Seasonal trends.
• Ability to make decisions under pressure.
• Ability to investigate and resolve customer complaints and concerns.
• Flexible, resilient, and comfortable working in grey areas that are constantly changing.
• Strong collaboration skills to partner with a cross-functional team.
• Be able to work in a remote environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office with strong Excel & Word skills.
• Ability to provide training.
• Good judgment is required for this position as there may be times when direct supervision may not be immediately available.

This position is classified as remote where the associate will perform remote work from their primary residence. Remote associates are welcome to work from the office but are not required to do so. While remote associates are not required to work from an office on a regular basis, they may be required to come to the office or other UNFI locations for necessary business reasons or if directed to do so by their manager.

Most work is performed in a temperature-controlled office environment.
Incumbents may sit for long periods of time at a desk or computer terminal.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.
Incumbents may use calculators, keyboards, telephones, and other office equipment during a normal workday.
Stooping, bending, twisting, and reaching may be required in the completion of job duties.