Produce Department Manager (Temporary)

Job Title:                 Produce Department Manager (Temporary)

Reports To:             Store Director/Produce Department Director

Responsible for working closely with all Produce associates in an effort to ensure all company policies and procedures are being followed, department goals and objectives are being obtained, and associates’ needs are being met. Contributes to store sales and profitability by effectively managing all aspects of Produce department operations, to include but not limited to: labor, expenses, accurate pricing, stock levels, merchandising, and customer service.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, teach, and reinforce Hometown Grocers’ culture, customer service, and performance expectations to all Produce associates.

• Maintain adequate staffing by interviewing applicants and extending job offers.

• Train new Produce associates and provide ongoing development for existing team members.

• Finalize and approve weekly work schedules for Produce associates.

• Conduct performance reviews and document violations of company policies, taking appropriate corrective action when necessary.

• Provide guidance and answer questions for all Produce department associates.

• Ensure all department standards are being met, including inventory levels, product quality, and merchandising standards.

• Observe sales floor and back-stock conditions and take corrective action when needed.

• Communicate and collaborate with the Store Director, Produce Director, other Department Managers, and associates to maintain standards and exceed guest expectations.

• Deliver exceptional customer service, assist with locating items, handle special orders, and resolve guest concerns.

• Maintain positive and professional relationships with vendors, follow proper ordering and credit procedures.

• Lead by example while assisting associates with daily responsibilities.

• Develop Assistant Department Manager and/or Department Leads for advancement opportunities.

• Contribute to department cleanliness, including work areas, shelving, and sales floor.

• Maintain and verify compliance with department food safety logs.

• Ensure timekeeping accuracy and communicate any schedule issues to HR.

• Ensure quality standards are met, including quantity expectations at 100% by 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Maintain regular, timely attendance in compliance with the work schedule.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent; combination of education and experience considered.

• 5–7 years of leadership experience, with at least 2 years in a managerial role.

• Thorough knowledge of retail food operations, particularly perishable departments, and merchandising skills.

• Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to manage a diverse team in a fast-paced environment.

• Knowledge of safety requirements, company safety policies, and proper use of equipment including hand jack, baler, forklift, cutter, hand truck, and trash compactor.

• Ability to lift up to 60 pounds occasionally and perform repetitive tasks for prolonged periods.

• WI Certified Food Manager License (Hometown Grocers will provide training if not already certified).

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and use upper body strength for lifting and stocking.

• Fine finger dexterity, eye-hand-foot coordination, and ability to operate equipment.

• Functional sensory abilities to visually monitor the store and create displays.

• Occasional exposure to extreme temperatures.

• Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Work Schedule

• Temporary hourly position; duration varies

Hometown Grocers Commitment:
Hometown Grocers is committed to fostering a respectful and inclusive environment with equal employment opportunities for all. We value diversity and inclusion among our team members, products, and community, and are dedicated to recruiting, developing, and retaining the most talented associates.