Produce Merchandising Manager

Summary:

The Merchandising Manager (Buyer) is responsible for planning, sourcing, negotiating, and managing the procurement of regionally managed products to support business goals. This role focuses on building and optimizing supplier relationships, ensuring cost-effective purchasing solutions, and maintaining a steady flow of high-quality products. The ideal candidate will excel in analyzing market trends, driving operational efficiency, and delivering results that align with the company's strategic objectives.

Responsibilities:

• Select products based on market trends, performance, supplier reliability, and consumer demand.
• Manage the product life cycle, understanding consumer preferences and competitive dynamics.
• Provide product and pricing recommendations to regional store teams, ensuring an effective balance of volume and margin.
• Continuously assess and select vendors based on quality, reliability, cost competitiveness, and market expertise.
• Negotiate pricing, order quantities, discounts, and terms with suppliers based on demand, promotions, and market conditions.
• Foster strong vendor relationships by addressing issues related to invoicing, product quality, or delivery.
• Develop and implement ordering policies, lead-time strategies, and cost-optimization initiatives.
• Plan and process daily requisitions and purchase orders to meet store demand, expediting orders as required.
• Conduct data analysis to interpret financial performance, track category performance, and identify key business indicators.
• Implement category reviews and performance improvement plans to enhance procurement and sales effectiveness.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to align procurement strategies with business goals.
• Monitor market trends and consumer behavior to identify opportunities for product development and competitive advantage.
• Participate in trade shows, supplier visits, and market research to maintain a competitive edge.
• Merchandising Manager will be responsible for conducting routine visits to all stores in the East Coast region. This includes ensuring proper product placement, managing inventory levels, overseeing promotional displays, and maintaining store standards. Regular store visits will be essential to monitor compliance with merchandising strategies and resolve any operational issues.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

• A Bachelor's degree in Business, Merchandising, Marketing, or a related field is preferred.
• 4 to 7 years of experience in purchasing, supply chain management, or retail merchandising is required; entry-level roles may be available for candidates with relevant education or internships.
• Bilingual in English and Mandarin is preferred.
• Familiarity with Asian grocery products, cultural preferences, and market trends is a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Strong negotiation skills for securing optimal contracts and pricing with suppliers.
• Proficient in analyzing sales data and market trends to inform purchasing decisions and optimize inventory.
• Experienced in building and maintaining vendor relationships to ensure product quality and timely delivery.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration with suppliers and internal teams.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects concurrently, ensuring timely execution of purchasing and merchandising strategies.
• Authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• This job may require standing or walking for extended periods of time, lifting up to 50 pounds, and performing repetitive motions.

• Employment Type: Full Time
• Location: 561 U.S. Rte 1 , Edison, NJ 088178

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.
• 401 (k) Retirement Saving Plan with 4% Company Match.
• Long-Term Services Award.
• Employee Discount.
• Paid Time Off.