Bakery / Deli Specialist - Southern Utah

IMPORTANT: This role is based in Southern Utah and provides support to multiple store locations across the region.

WHO ARE WE?

• We are a long-standing organization dedicated to supporting grocery retailers across the Intermountain West for over 80 years.
• Our company prioritizes our team members, their families, and the communities we serve.
• We proudly partner with local organizations to fundraise, donate, and sponsor various charitable activities and events.

WHY JOIN THE TEAM?

• Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), vacation, and sick leave for eligible team members. Some benefits have waiting periods (e.g., vacation accrual, 401(k), tuition reimbursement).
• Perks & Discounts: Team member perks and 10% off groceries.
• Flexible Work: Hybrid schedules available for select positions, combining in-office collaboration with remote flexibility.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Support for continued education.
• Career Growth: Opportunities for advancement within the company.
• Daily Pay: Access earned wages more frequently.

JOB SUMMARY

The Bakery/Deli Specialist is responsible for driving sales, enhancing gross margin, and ensuring profitability within the bakery and deli departments of assigned retail stores. This role involves communicating company and departmental policies, government regulations, and merchandising strategies. The Specialist fosters strong relationships with store teams and owners while collaborating closely with internal teams to help stores achieve their objectives. The ideal candidate should reside in Southern Utah, as this position requires travel throughout this region.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Support and Training : Provide comprehensive support to retail bakery and deli teams, including training in merchandising and sales techniques to drive profitability.
• Relationship Management : Build and maintain strong relationships with retail store teams to promote collaboration and achieve shared goals.
• Sales Leadership : Directly influence and assist departments in increasing sales and optimizing product mix through strategic initiatives and departmental meetings.
• Industry Insights : Share current industry trends and best practices with retailers to keep them informed and competitive.
• Project Coordination : Work with internal procurement teams and lead special projects such as Food Shows, annual department meetings, and store events.
• Reporting and Budgeting : Report on sales performance, plan budgets, track travel expenses, and forecast increased sales and purchases for both wholesale and retail operations.
• Additional Duties : Participate in special projects and perform other tasks as assigned or requested.

Position Requirements

• Education : High School Diploma or equivalent; relevant experience in a related field preferred.
• Experience : Minimum of two years of experience in retail grocery, preferably in bakery and deli operations.
• Communication Skills : Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in various situations, ensuring all stakeholders are informed and engaged.
• Department Knowledge : Strong understanding of bakery and deli processes, including merchandising and sales strategies.
• Relationship Building : Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with team members and stakeholders.
• Problem Solving : Swift problem-solving skills with a history of implementing effective solutions.
• Attention to Detail : Ability to manage multiple projects with a high level of attention to detail.
• Attendance : Regular on-site attendance is required.
• Travel : Use of a personal vehicle is necessary for travel throughout the assigned area.

Physical/Sensory Demands

• Work is primarily performed in retail environments, requiring prolonged standing, bending, twisting, lifting, and carrying.
• Office work involves prolonged sitting, exposure to indoor lighting, and frequent use of computer screens.
• The role includes significant travel, with extended drive times and occasional overnight stays.

Join us as a Bakery/Deli Specialist and play a key role in enhancing our retail operations while delivering exceptional service and support!

Associated Food Stores is an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.