Retail Merchandising Sales Representative

Merchandising Specialist

Responsible for driving sales and delivering consistent, high-quality merchandising services at assigned customer locations. This includes ordering products, stocking shelves, executing resets and remodels, and supporting continuity and cycle coverage programs. At times may also assist with stretch projects and may receive directions from Coordinators, Supervisors, Managers, or Directors within Shelf Services.

Location: this role services accounts located in Minneapolis & St. Paul, MN.

Job Responsibilities:

• Influence customer orders by identifying sales opportunities and recommending item discontinuations. Place orders, merchandise products, hang shelf tags, and set promotional materials. Execute resets to drive sales. Sell promotional and sales programs as assigned. Follow through on all customer product requests.
• Serve as the primary contact for assigned customers and merchandising projects. Execute customer-specific plans during scheduled visits and provide feedback to UNFI stakeholders. Visits retailers on Field Sales or Home Store program on a provided Schedule to execute customer specific plans. Follow HACCP and SQF guidelines as applicable.
• Rotate stock, remove out-of-code items, and process returns/credits per company policy and customer agreements.
• Regularly communicates with Key UNFI Personnel on competitor activity, sales opportunities, customer request and any other significant issues.
• Collaborate with supervisors or account managers to develop action plans for assigned projects. Ensure deadlines and budgets are met. Interpret internal reports as needed.
• Exercise discretion and independent judgment in project planning and selling UNFI Professional Services and product lines.
• Extensive travel could be required within assigned geographical area, based on customer needs
• Complete required documentation accurately and on time. Stay current on Shelf Services technology and tools through training and collaboration with Category Management and Sales teams.
• Performs other duties assigned.

Job Requirements:

• A Valid Driver's License is necessary.
• Auto Insurance levels that meet UNFI requirements.

Experience:

• Minimum 1-year related experience in Retail or Distribution.
• Prior Sales and customer service experience in a retail setting.
• Food related product experience desired.
• Bilingual Spanish a plus.

Knowledge/Skills/ Abilities:

• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Time management skills and attention to detail
• Basic math abilities
• Ability to motivate and work with others to achieve desired results.
• Ability to read, understand and implement planograms.
• Basic to intermediate computer skills
• Ability to work independently.
• Good judgment is required for this position as there may be times when direct supervision may not be immediately available.

Work Environment:

Onsite Role:

• This position requires the associate to perform all duties at one of our UNFI locations, such as a distribution center or office.

Travel (onsite):

• Travel is required up to (95)% for this position.

Physical Environment/Demands:

• Daily travel is required and access to a vehicle is necessary
• Ability to get in and out of car multiple times per day
• Drive to and from accounts safely in city, rural and expressway conditions
• Ability to set up displays, fixtures, shelving and products
• Able to tolerate exposure to store and warehouse conditions including wide variances in temperature, dust and dirt
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs

About UNFI: We are North America's premier grocery wholesaler, delivering the widest variety of fresh, branded, and owned brand products to community grocers and retail chains alike. A pioneer in natural and organic foods, we are growing and transforming to meet the needs of an evolving workplace. Our 29,000+ employees work across America in our 50 Distribution Centers and corporate offices.

Benefits: Competitive 401k, Competitive PTO plan, Health benefits first of the month following 30 days of employment, mileage reimbursement, cell phone, mentorship program/developmental opportunities.

UNFI is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive and respectful environment for all. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other protected ground. Accommodation is available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the job selection process. - Veteran/Disability. VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

Company: United Natural Foods Inc.