Gourmet Associate

Job Title: Gourmet Associate

Job Summary: The Gourmet Associate is responsible for selecting, purchasing, and managing the inventory of gourmet food products for a retail establishment. This role ensures that the assortment meets customer demand, quality standards, and profitability goals, significantly contributing to the store's success.

Supervisory Responsibilities: None

Duties/Responsibilities:

Product Selection and Procurement:

• Research and identify gourmet food products that align with the store's target market, customer preferences, and trends.
• Source products from suppliers, distributors, and wholesalers, negotiating prices, terms, and delivery schedules.
• Evaluate product quality, freshness, and packaging to ensure they meet the store's standards.

Inventory Management:

• Monitor inventory levels of all gourmet products to prevent stockouts or overstock situations.
• Analyze sales data, market trends, and historical performance to make informed purchasing decisions.
• Adjust order quantities based on seasonal variations, promotions, and changing consumer preferences.

Supplier Relationships:

• Cultivate strong relationships with suppliers and vendors, fostering open communication and collaboration.
• Stay informed about industry trends, new products, and market dynamics by attending trade shows and engaging with suppliers.

Price and Cost Management:

• Negotiate competitive pricing and terms with suppliers to optimize profit margins while offering competitive prices to customers.
• Monitor market prices and competitor offerings to ensure the store's pricing strategy remains competitive.

Promotions and Marketing:

• Collaborate with the marketing team to plan and execute promotional campaigns for gourmet products.
• Identify opportunities for cross-promotions, special events, and seasonal offerings to drive sales and customer engagement.

Quality Control:

• Conduct regular quality checks on received products to ensure they meet freshness, quality, and safety standards.
• Address any quality issues promptly, working with suppliers to resolve them.

Forecasting and Planning:

• Use sales data, historical trends, and market insights to forecast demand for gourmet products.
• Create purchasing plans and orders to align with anticipated demand and sales targets.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate records of purchases, supplier agreements, and product information.
• Generate reports on product performance, sales trends, and inventory turnover to support decision-making.

Compliance and Regulations:

• Stay current with relevant regulations, certifications, and labeling requirements for food products.
• Ensure that all products meet legal and regulatory standards.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Previous experience as a buyer in the gourmet food or retail industry is preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Excellent negotiation and communication skills for working with suppliers.
• Proficient in using inventory management and procurement software.
• Knowledge of food safety and quality standards.
• Creativity and adaptability to changing consumer preferences and industry trends.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and make strategic decisions.
• A passion for gourmet food, an understanding of culinary trends, and a customer-focused mindset.

Pay Range:  

• Entry-Level: $14 - $16 per hour 
• Mid-Career: $16 - $18 per hour 

The actual pay rate within the specified range will depend on experience and location.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $14.00 - $16.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

Shift:

• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Morning shift

Work Location: In person

Salary : $14 - $16