Merchandising Services Manager

Company: UNFI
Location: Rocklin
Posted on: April 16, 2024

Job Description:

PURPOSE:Manages field Shelf Management Representative (SMR) team in the execution of Home Store, regular category resets, remodels, full store resets and affiliations. Leads the sales, implementation, and support of Merchandising Services to Independent Retailers including the areas of Shelf Management and 3rd Party Merchandising Service Programs. Sells Shelf Management suite of programs and solutions to our customers. Assembles internal and external reset merchandising teams, assigns work locations, develops and maintains schedules, monitors performance, sets priorities and assures that work is done within defined budget parameters. Works closely with schematic, procurement, assortment, third-party labor provider, retailers and sales teams. Establishes priorities that align with UNFI and our retailers short and long-term merchandising and micro/macro space goals. JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:Develops and manages SMR field teams. Staffs the team with qualified candidates, assigns work and monitors progress against established schedules/goals. Provides retail expertise, technical guidance and assistance to SMR s.Prepares and presents sales presentations to customers/retailers outlining potential Professional Services.Accomplishes staffing results and develops team members by mentoring, communicating job expectations, planning, monitoring, appraising job results, coaching, and counseling. Coordinating and enforcing systems, policies and procedures.Partners with Merchandising, Marketing, third-party provider and Independent Retailers to provide Space and Merchandising Services that maximize region and retailer profitability.Utilizes third-party provider and employees to provide services. Negotiates contracts with retailers for services and monitors performance to assure that retailers and UNFI s needs are met.Develops and maintains strong working relationship with third-party provider to assure that store reset merchandising resources are available. Works closely with third-party provider to schedule staffing requirements and/or billing activities.Represents Schematics & Merchandising philosophies with independent retailers considering Execution, Schematics, Mapping and Assortment solutions.Travels to retail stores and retailer offices to work with owners and operators to evaluate micro/ macro space merchandising opportunities for new stores, remodel, or reset projects. Provides merchandising advice and guidance to retailers.Leads and/or works in conjunction with SMR s to evaluate merchandising needs, prepare action plans, develop layouts and day by day schedule for all reset activities.Evaluates business opportunities, determines potential for increased sales based on the use of retail space. Plays a major role in optimizing the use of retail space with retailers.Maintains rapport with key accounts by making periodic visits; exploring specific needs; anticipating new opportunities. Visits the competition and benchmark stores to develop a network of ideas and solutions. Indirectly manages UNFI external third-party merchandising teams that are responsible for completing merchandising projects including but not limited to Home Store Program, full store resets, custom & core schematics, ad hoc projects, and new store set up.Directs the training, personal development and succession planning of direct reports (SMR s) to meet current and future department and region staffing needs.Manages and oversees detailed project plans for merchandising retailer stores. Project schedules include work schedules, third-party provider participation, and equipment needs. Works closely with Mapping, Assortment and Schematic Teams.Champions new ideas and initiatives and creates an environment that supports innovation.Reviews and analyzes historical data to measure results as well as develop future remodel schedule. Responsible for forecasting project costs and make sure project schedules stay within budget.Develop and manage timelines while coordinating with production and delivery schedules. Responsible for maintaining project schedule for assigned regions and works closely with Senior Shelf Management Manager to ensure that all projects are on track to meet timelines and budgets.Accomplishes financial objectives by forecasting requirements, preparing an annual budget, scheduling expenditures, analyzing variances and initiating corrective actions for all divisions (their territories)Responsible for developing, managing and executing space and merchandising strategies that will lead to meeting and achieving revenue, expense and profitability goals.JOB REQUIREMENTS:Education/ Certifications (Required & Preferred) & Experience:Bachelor s degree in business or related area of experience preferred.5+ years merchandising/retail management experience.Wholesale buying and/ or Retail experience preferred.Proven leadership, negotiating and communication skills.Bilingual
Spanish a plus.Knowledge:Strong grocery, frozen, dairy product knowledge is essential. Significant prior experience with merchandising analytics.High level of expertise working with personal computers.Strong knowledge of industry best practices of Category and Shelf Management.Ability to manage and adjust readily to multiple demands, shifting priorities and change.Skills/ Abilities:Ability to communicate and proactively interact with independent retailer management/ownership.Effective staff development and training skills.Effective decision-making skills.Ability to influence without authority.Ability to understand and focus on customer needs.Strong administrative and organizational skills required.Attention to detail, accuracy and high degree of integrity.All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. UNFI is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive and respectful environment for all. - M/F/Veteran/Disability. VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

Keywords: UNFI, Folsom , Merchandising Services Manager, Executive , Rocklin, California