Produce Department Manager

Location Wausau, WI 54401 Position Type Full-Time Company Overview Festival Foods is a Wisconsin grocer that serves communities across the state through more than 40 full-service supermarkets. We are committed to giving back and to providing exceptional service and value. People are at the top of our list. You’ll see it in our interactions and in the associate benefits and programs. Job Summary Job Title: Produce Department Manager Reports To: Senior Fresh Manager A retail, grocery, or food-service leader who thrives in fast-paced store environments, with a passion for fresh produce and a talent for coaching teams, will find this role rewarding. As Produce Department Manager, you will ensure guests find the freshest fruits and vegetables, beautifully merchandised displays, and friendly, knowledgeable service. You’ll lead with integrity, develop your team, and make a meaningful impact every day. What You’ll Do Lead and develop your team: Provide coaching, feedback, and support to produce associates, reinforce culture and performance expectations, conduct reviews, and deliver training. Recruit and onboard associates: Partner with HR to interview candidates, extend offers, and ensure new hires receive smooth onboarding and training. Plan and manage schedules: Finalize and approve weekly work schedules to meet staffing needs while managing labor goals. Support associate growth: Mentor Assistant Department Managers and Leads for advancement. Oversee department operations: Manage inventory, ordering, pricing accuracy, and product rotation to maintain freshness and profitability. Maintain partnerships & standards: Work with suppliers, follow ordering and credit procedures, and ensure consistent product quality and availability. Monitor merchandising standards: Observe sales floor and backroom conditions daily to ensure appealing, well-stocked displays that meet company standards. Deliver exceptional guest service: Provide friendly assistance, answer questions, take special orders, and resolve concerns professionally. Ensure safety and compliance: Maintain food safety documentation, verify temperature and sanitation logs, and enforce safety policies. Maintain timekeeping accuracy: Review schedules and time records for accuracy and communicate updates to HR. Drive sales and profitability: Meet or exceed goals for gross profit, shrink control, and guest satisfaction. Support a clean environment: Contribute to overall department cleanliness by maintaining work areas, shelving, and floor presentation. Honor commitments: Regular attendance and timely notice of absences. Perform other duties as assigned to support overall store operations and guest experience. What You'll Bring To excel in this role, your qualifications include: Education & Experience High School education or equivalent; 5+ years of leadership experience, including at least 2 years in a managerial role. Experience in retail food business with strong knowledge of perishable operations and merchandising best practices. Skills & Knowledge Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to motivate a diverse team. Strong understanding of inventory management, labor control, and profitability strategies. Proficiency with technology and comfort in a fast-paced retail environment. Safety Mindset Thorough understanding of safety requirements and company policies. Ability to operate department equipment safely (hand jack, baler, forklift, cutter, trash compactor, etc.). Must have or be willing to obtain a WI Certified Food Manager License (Festival covers certification costs). Physical Demands and Work Environment The following physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made. Stand on the floor for long periods, walk, bend, stoop, and kneel regularly; fine finger and broad manual dexterity required. Full range of upper body motion required; occasional lifting of stock up to 60 lbs. Ability to perform repetitive tasks for prolonged periods. Visual monitoring of the store and display creation. Occasional exposure to extreme temperatures. Work Schedule The Produce Department Manager is a full‑time position with a schedule that includes mornings, afternoons, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Benefits Overview Associate Discount: Industry-leading 15% off grocery purchases for you and your immediate household. Weekly Pay & Premium Pay: Hourly associates receive weekly pay; part-time associates receive a $1 premium per hour on Sundays and select holidays; hourly full-time associates receive time and a half on Sundays and select holidays. Two‑Week Advanced Scheduling: Schedules are provided two weeks in advance for greater predictability and flexibility. Vision & Dental Insurance: Part-time and full‑time associates are eligible for vision insurance and two dental coverage options. Support Programs: 3 weeks paid parental leave, fitness reimbursement, Employee Assistance Program, and LEAPCare Coaches for confidential well‑being support. 401(k) Retirement Plan: Festival Foods offers a 401(k) plan with an annual discretionary match to help associates save for retirement. Festival Foods is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all. We are dedicated to building a top‑notch team of skilled, experienced, and service‑oriented associates. An inclusive environment for teammates of all backgrounds strengthens our ability to serve guests and communities. Address 110 S 17th Ave, Wausau, WI 54401 Ready to Lead Our Produce Team? Apply now to grow your career with Festival Foods. #J-18808-Ljbffr