Manager, Produce Distribution

Job Purpose

The Produce Distribution Manager is responsible for consulting, communication (internal and external), monitoring, and reporting on all activities associated with core menu items, tests, promotions, limited time only promotions (LTO's), and items in transition (includes phase-in/outs, menu change items), overseeing approximately $125 million in annual spend. In addition, they will coordinate all exception management with trade partners for these activities. Their function will be to interface with internal departments such as culinary, category management and operations, and externally with suppliers, distributors, and other 3/4PL's.

Duties & Responsibilities

In addition to these core activities, they will be the primary interface for Distribution and Logistics, Sourcing, and Quality Assurance at Panera for all supply issues, such as network supply shortages and quality holds / recalls. In this capacity, they will coordinate all network responses on behalf of Panera.

The primary responsibilities of this job include, but are not limited to:

• Supplier Management:
  • Identify and establish relationships with reliable and quality produce suppliers.
  • Work in accordance with sourcing to negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms with suppliers to ensure competitive costs and favorable conditions.
  • Monitor supplier performance and address any issues that may arise.
  • Establish a weekly cadence with suppliers that drives company driven kpi's.
  • Manage day-to-day supplier/cafe quality needs and compliance.
• Inventory Management:
  • Ensure optimal inventory levels to meet customer demand while minimizing waste and spoilage.
  • Implement inventory control measures to track and manage supplier/3pl stock levels efficiently.
  • Work closely with the supply chain team to coordinate timely deliveries.
• Product Selection and Sourcing:
  • Research and stay informed about industry trends, new varieties, and sourcing options.
  • Collaborate with suppliers to select the best produce based on quality, seasonality, and customer preferences.
  • Continuously evaluate and update the product assortment to meet market demands.
• Quality Assurance:
  • Establish and enforce quality standards for all produce items.
  • Implement quality control measures to ensure that products meet regulatory and internal quality requirements.
  • Work with suppliers to address quality issues and implement corrective actions.
• Financial Management:
  • Develop and manage the budget for the produce category.
  • Monitor financial performance, analyze variances, and implement cost-saving measures.
  • Provide input into pricing strategies to maintain competitiveness and profitability.
• Data Analysis:
  • Utilize data and analytics to assess product performance, identify trends, and make informed decisions.
  • Regularly review sales reports, market data, and other relevant metrics to optimize the category's performance.
• Compliance and Regulations:
  • Stay informed about and ensure compliance with relevant industry regulations and standards.
  • Collaborate with QA teams to address compliance issues and implement necessary changes.
• Collaboration and Communication:
  • Work closely with cross-functional teams, including quality assurance, sales, marketing, supply chain, and finance.
  • Communicate effectively with internal teams and external partners to ensure alignment on category goals and strategies.
• Customer Satisfaction:
  • Monitor customer feedback and satisfaction levels related to the produce category.
  • Implement improvements based on customer feedback to enhance the overall customer experience.
• Other responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications (Education & Experience)

Qualifications include:

• Education
  • Minimum: Bachelor's degree in Business, Operations Management, Logistics, Supply Chain
  • Preferred: Master's degree in Business, Operations Management, Logistics or Supply Chain
• Specialized knowledge
  • Proficient in usage of data warehouse tools (24TRACC or similar)
  • Solid understanding of motor carrier and other surface transportation management terms and concepts
• Skills
  • Strong in MS Excel. Proficient in Word, Power Point & Outlook. Access skills a plus
  • Strong in usage of reporting and data visualization tools
• Abilities
  • Strong communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Proficiency in Supply Chain analytics
• Other characteristics such as personal characteristics
  • Professional presence with ability to act as face of Panera Supply Chain to internal and external stakeholders
• Professional Certification
  • None required
• Experience
  • Minimum: 3-5 years with a restaurant brand (purchasing, distribution and logistics, or product planning and analysis), Distribution Operations, Customer Service or Promotional Planning and Execution
  • Preferred: 5-7 years with a restaurant brand (purchasing, distribution and logistics, or product planning and analysis), Distribution Operations, Customer Service or Promotional Planning and Execution
  • Preferred: Experience with food service industry customers.

Working Conditions

• Work is usually performed in an office environment with normal noise levels. Involves prolonged sitting, and computer usage.
• Work involves travel and visits to Suppliers, Carriers, Distributors, and 3PL shipping and warehouse facilities (5-10% Travel).