Job description:
Summary of Position
The Seafood Innovation & Sourcing Manager is a key member of the
purchasing team and will be responsible for ensuring we are fully
stocked with premium seafood products while maintaining operational and
budgetary efficiency. This role reports to our Vice President of
Procurement and works in close collaboration with our Director of
Seafood on sourcing strategies, sales planning, and product development.
This is a dynamic position with a mix of operational responsibility and
strategic opportunity. From visiting producers on sourcing trips to
evaluating product quality daily in our warehouse, this individual plays
a crucial role in maintaining the standards our customers expect while
helping shape the future of our seafood program.
We are looking for someone organized, detail-oriented, and passionate
about quality, someone who thrives in the fast-paced energy of both
foodservice and retail environments.
Qualifications:
Key Responsibilities
Want someone with Purchasing Seafood experience!
- Inventory Management: Replenish and manage inventory with
top-quality seafood, ensuring consistent in-stock levels and
alignment with demand.
- Quality Control: Conduct daily inspections of seafood inventory to
ensure freshness and adherence to quality standards.
- Collaborative Sourcing: Partner with the Director of Seafood on
sourcing trips and vendor selection, helping build long-term
producer relationships.
- Purchasing Execution: Maintain accurate and organized purchasing
records to maximize buying efficiency and ensure all item data
(SKUs, case signs, pricing) is accurate and updated.
- Customer Experience: Handle special customer orders with care and
precision, ensuring seamless coordination between departments.
- Customer-Facing Demonstrations: Serve as a seafood category expert
by leading cooking demonstrations, tastings, and training events in
our state-of-the-art 5,000 sq. ft. culinary center. Present products
and support program launches for current and prospective customers
as well as internal sales teams. This role also includes local
travel throughout the Detroit metro area for on-site demos and
customer engagement.
- Staff Enablement: Support sales and operations teams by sharing
product knowledge, conducting cuttings and trainings, and equipping
them to sell confidently.
- Promotional Planning: Work with leadership on high-impact promotions
including merchandising, sales strategy, and digital/social content.
- Data-Driven Buying: Analyze margin and sales data to maintain the
right product mix and meet financial goals.
- Issue Resolution: Proactively identify and resolve purchasing issues
with urgency and professionalism.
- Communication: Serve as the liaison between procurement, sales, and
operationscommunicating product changes, availability, and key
updates.
- Contribute to Culture: Be a positive, solutions-oriented presence
that lives our values and supports our team-focused environment.
Why is This a Great Opportunity:
If you have purchased Seafood and are looking to love your job, look no further! Very Employee focused, growing organization!