Assistant Produce Manager
Position Summary
The Assistant Produce Manager supports the Produce Manager in overseeing daily department operations, ensuring fresh, high-quality products, outstanding customer service, food safety compliance, and efficient department performance. This position assists with inventory management, merchandising, associate development, and achieving sales and profitability goals while maintaining a clean, safe, and customer-focused produce department.
Key Responsibilities Department Operations- Assist in managing daily produce department operations and workflow.
- Ensure fresh fruits, vegetables, and related products are stocked and merchandised according to company standards.
- Support department sales, labor, shrink, and profitability goals.
- Monitor department conditions to maintain cleanliness, organization, and readiness.
- Assist with implementing company programs, promotions, and operational initiatives.
- Help ensure consistent execution of production and replenishment plans.
- Maintain visually appealing displays that drive customer engagement and sales.
- Ensure proper rotation of products using freshness and quality standards.
- Verify accurate pricing, signage, and product information throughout the department.
- Monitor inventory levels to maintain strong in-stock conditions.
- Support seasonal, promotional, and holiday merchandising programs.
- Identify opportunities to improve sales through product quality, presentation, and assortment.
- Assist with ordering and inventory control to meet customer demand.
- Help manage shrink through effective forecasting, rotation, and inventory practices.
- Verify accuracy of deliveries and product receipts.
- Ensure proper handling, storage, and rotation of produce products.
- Maintain organized coolers, prep areas, and storage rooms.
- Assist with inventory counts, audits, and recordkeeping activities.
- Provide leadership, coaching, and daily direction to produce associates.
- Assist with hiring, onboarding, and training new employees.
- Support scheduling and workload distribution to maximize productivity.
- Monitor associate performance and provide ongoing feedback.
- Promote teamwork, accountability, and a positive work environment.
- Serve as acting department leader in the absence of the Produce Manager.
- Deliver exceptional customer service and foster a customer-first culture.
- Assist customers with product selection, product knowledge, and special requests.
- Resolve customer concerns promptly and professionally.
- Ensure associates provide friendly, knowledgeable, and efficient service.
- Promote customer satisfaction through high-quality products and department conditions.
- Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and health regulations.
- Monitor proper product handling, storage, preparation, and temperature controls.
- Follow and enforce company policies and operational procedures.
- Conduct routine inspections to maintain cleanliness and safety standards.
- Report and correct food safety or workplace safety concerns immediately.
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Previous produce, grocery, food service, retail, or fresh department experience required.
- Prior supervisory or leadership experience preferred.
- Knowledge of produce merchandising, inventory control, freshness standards, and food safety practices preferred.
- Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly.
- Ability to push, pull, bend, reach, and perform repetitive motions.
- Ability to work in refrigerated environments and varying temperatures.
- Ability to safely operate department equipment and handling tools.
- Leadership
- Customer Focus
- Team Development
- Food Safety Awareness
- Inventory Management
- Merchandising Excellence
- Communication
- Problem Solving
- Organization
- Accountability
The Assistant Produce Manager plays a critical role in supporting department success by maintaining fresh, high-quality products, developing associates, ensuring operational excellence, and delivering an outstanding shopping experience for every customer.