Director of Produce

**Summary**

The primary function of this position is to lead our produce operations, ensuring we continue to offer a diverse and exceptional selection while optimizing costs and profitability. Ace Endico is a leading food distribution company committed to delivering the freshest, highest-quality produce to our customers. We operate with a focus on delivering our customers with an experience which will surpass their expectations.

An individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each essential duty listed below. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

**Essential Duties and Responsibilities**
- Oversee all aspects of produce procurement, sourcing, and inventory management.
- Responsible for profitable sales growth within the produce category.
- Develop and implement strategic sourcing plans to secure high-quality produce at competitive prices.
- Negotiate contracts with suppliers and growers, building strong relationships for long-term partnerships.
- Manage and develop a team of procurement professionals, providing coaching and mentorship.
- Implement effective inventory control methods to minimize waste and optimize stock levels.
- Stay current on market trends, seasonality, and pricing fluctuations in the produce industry.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable food safety regulations and quality standards.
- Work closely with sales and marketing teams to ensure alignment with customer needs and preferences.
- Develop and implement initiatives to improve operational efficiency and cost savings.
- Analyze data and identify opportunities for process improvement and innovation.
- Manage budgets and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to produce operations.
- Represent the company at industry events and trade shows.
- Facilitate product training and new product introductions, with DSS, Specialists and sales staff.
- Report new product opportunities and provide data on competitors.
- Ensure product/brand message is in alignment with overall Company strategy.
- Work closely with the culinary team conducting planning meetings to identify accounts and potential sales opportunities.
- Develop and deliver effective sales training programs.
- Create educational materials and resources for continuous staff learning and knowledge reinforcement.
- Foster a culture of food safety awareness and accountability among staff.

**Qualifications**

**Education/Training**:

- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Agricultural Science, or related field (MBA preferred).
- Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in produce procurement and management within the food distribution industry.

**Knowledge/Skills/Abilities**:

- Proven track record of success in negotiating contracts, managing vendor relationships, and optimizing costs.
- Strong understanding of food safety regulations and quality control procedures.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Strong leadership and team-building skills.
- Experience with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems preferred.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
- Working knowledge of products.
- Meet or exceed established goals.

**Physical Requirements**:

- Ability to move around freely in varied indoor and outdoor environments.
- Normal visual acuity.
- Good hearing and oral communication skills.
- Manual dexterity and ability to use a keyboard and mouse comfortably.
- Coordination and ability to perform physically demanding tasks when necessary.
- Regularly required to use hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls.
- Regularly required to reach with hands and arms, balance, talk, hear, stoop, kneel, crouch, or sit.
- Regularly lift and/or move up to 40 pounds, occasionally lift and/or move between 41 and 50 pounds, and seldom lift and/or move 51 pounds and up to 100 pounds.
- Able to sit, stand and walk for extended periods.
- Possess the stamina to work long hours under pressure during regulatory inspections.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.

**General Requirements**:

- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must successfully pass a controlled substance screening test and background check.
- Must adhere to all safety practices and company policies.

**Work Environment**

While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, moving mechanical parts and extreme/inclement weather conditions. Temperatures range from below zero to 95F degrees or above. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. The work environment will occasionally include congested and high traffic areas, slippery floors, walking and working on concrete flooring.

**Equal Opportunity Employer Statement**

Applicants must