Retail Merchandise Representative - Michigan & Northern OH

Job Overview:

The Retail Merchandising Representative is responsible for overseeing the execution of merchandising projects across a defined geographic area. This includes managing UNFI Shelf Services employees, vendors, brokers, retailers, and third-party merchandisers to ensure timely and accurate completion of initiatives such as new store setups, full resets, remodels, ad hoc projects, and in-store execution programs. The Retail Merchandising Representative may also act as a sales consultant, promoting UNFI products and Professional Services while in-store.

Job Responsibilities:

• Interact face to face with retailers to determine reset projects and create daily project plans using Shelf Services skills and technical solutions. Coordinate and place orders for in-house equipment and racks from suppliers to ensure timely shipments.
• Supervise and instruct 3rd Party and Retail Merchandising staff in the use of implementation of Planograms. Initiate retailer and 3rd Party merchandiser training and provide ongoing training as needed.
• Lead project teams and partners (vendors, brokers, third-party) to maximize profitability. Monitor and report territory P&L performance.
• Conduct regular retailer visits to evaluate program effectiveness, provide feedback, and influence assortment decisions.
• Independently resolve conflicts between retail, regional teams, UNFI, and vendor/broker partners.
• Server as the Primary contact for customers and merchandising projects. Responsible for maintaining effective business relations with all customers and UNFI Stakeholders.
• Regularly communicates with UNFI Sales Leaders regarding competitor activity, sales opportunities, customer requests and any other significant issues.
• Seize opportunities to increase sales through creative merchandising techniques. Sell promotional and sales programs as assigned. Follow through on customer product requests.
• Regularly exercise discretion and independent judgement in project planning and the selling of Professional Services. Assist with presentations and positively engage customers on the full Professional Services Portfolio to strengthen customer/UNFI relationship.
• Complete required documentation accurately and timely. Stay current on Shelf Services Technology and tools.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• High School graduate required; Bachelor's Degree preferred.
• Valid Driver's License is necessary.
• Auto Insurance levels that meet UNFI requirements.

• 3-5 years related experience in Retail or Distribution.
• Prior customer service experience in a retail setting.
• Food related product experience desired.
• Bilingual - Spanish a plus.

• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Utilize merchandising skills and available reporting to maximize sales with or without the use of planograms, or to amend layout changes and adapt at store level.
• Possess good leadership skills and ability to supervise the work of other effectively.
• Ability to motivate and work with others to achieve desired results.
• Strong organizational skills, time management skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to read, understand and implement planograms.
• Basic to intermediate computer skills involving Microsoft Suite of Software.
• Ability to work independently.
• 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.

• Travel is required up to (50)% for this position.

• Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 40 lbs., including boxes of product, promotional materials, and merchandising components.
• Ability to drive to and from customer accounts in city, rural, and expressway conditions, including during periods of inclement weather.
• Ability to set up instore displays, fixtures, shelving, and product, including tasks such as:
  • Using hand and finger dexterity to manipulate small parts, shelf clips, rack fittings, peg hooks, and signage materials
  • Assembling cardboard or lightweight pointofsale displays
  • Positioning or adjusting metal shelving, endcaps, or modular fixtures within established safety parameters
  • Placing, stocking, frontfacing, or reorganizing product on shelves or displays
  • Using step stools or small ladders to reach products or shelves at various heights (if part of the role expectations)
• Ability to work in and tolerate exposure to typical store and warehouse conditions, including but not limited to:
  • Wide variances in temperature (e.g., refrigerated, ambient, and warmer retail areas)
  • Dust, dirt, and debris consistent with retail and warehouse environments
  • Noise levels from equipment, customers, or operational activity
  • Strong or varying odors from products, cleaning supplies, or warehouse materials
  • Bright or fluctuating lighting conditions
• 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.
• Incumbent may use calculators, keyboards, telephones, and other office equipment in the course of a normal workday.
• Stooping, bending, twisting, and reaching may be required in the completion of job duties.