What are the responsibilities and job description for the Gourmet Associate position at Paul's Fruit Market?
Job Title: Gourmet Associate
Reports to: Director of Gourmet and Managment
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.
Reports to: Director of Gourmet and Managment
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.
Salary : $14 - $16
