Assistant Produce Manager

Position Purpose The Assistant Produce Manager supports the Produce Manager in overseeing all aspects of produce department operations, including customer service, merchandising, inventory management, food safety, quality control, and associate development. This position helps ensure the department consistently delivers fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables while maintaining exceptional presentation standards, operational excellence, and profitability. The Assistant Produce Manager serves as a key department leader and may assume responsibility for department operations in the Produce Manager’s absence. Key Responsibilities Customer Service & Sales Deliver outstanding customer service by assisting customers with product selection, meal ideas, and produce-related questions. Promote fresh produce offerings through suggestive selling and product knowledge. Ensure department displays are attractive, fully stocked, properly signed, and customer-ready. Address customer concerns and special requests promptly and professionally. Support sales growth through effective merchandising, seasonal displays, and promotional programs. Department Operations Assist in coordinating daily produce department operations, including receiving, stocking, culling, rotation, and merchandising. Ensure all products meet company standards for freshness, quality, and appearance. Monitor inventory levels and assist with ordering to maintain strong in-stock conditions while minimizing shrink. Maintain clean, organized, and efficient work and sales areas. Support execution of company merchandising plans, promotional events, and seasonal programs. Leadership & Team Development Assist with supervising, coaching, training, and developing produce associates. Support onboarding and skill development for new team members. Provide ongoing feedback, recognition, and performance coaching. Foster a positive work environment focused on teamwork, accountability, and customer service. Lead by example through professionalism, integrity, and strong work habits. Food Safety & Compliance Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, company, and regulatory requirements. Monitor proper product rotation, storage, handling, and freshness standards. Maintain department readiness for food safety, operational, and compliance audits. Ensure associates follow safe work practices and company procedures. Identify and address safety hazards promptly to maintain a safe environment for customers and associates. Financial Stewardship Assist with managing department sales, labor, inventory, and expenses. Support shrink reduction efforts through proper ordering, rotation, culling, and product handling practices. Monitor sales trends and product movement to maximize profitability and product availability. Help achieve department sales, productivity, and financial goals. Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and department performance. Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Previous produce, grocery, retail, or supervisory experience preferred. Knowledge of fresh produce products, merchandising practices, and food safety standards preferred. Strong leadership, communication, and customer service skills. Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment. Ability to work a flexible schedule, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Physical Requirements Ability to stand and walk for extended periods. Frequent bending, reaching, lifting, carrying, and twisting. Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation. Ability to work in refrigerated environments and varying temperature conditions. Ability to safely operate department equipment in accordance with company standards. Success Measures A successful Assistant Produce Manager demonstrates strong leadership, maintains exceptional freshness and quality standards, develops and supports associates, drives department sales and profitability, minimizes shrink, executes merchandising programs effectively, and delivers an outstanding customer experience while contributing to the overall success of the store. #J-18808-Ljbffr