Purpose:

The Retail Merchandising Representative Utility (RMRU) is responsible for covering open routes as assigned. This role provides quality service within various customers locations. Retail store locations will vary based on business needs. Services include but not limited to, ordering products, stocking & merchandising products, providing reset support in remodels and new stores, and executing continuity/Home Store and cycle coverage programs for customers. At times, the RMRU will assist in stretch projects where needed. The RMRU can receive direction from the Retail Merchandising Representative, Coordinator, Supervisor, Manager, or Director.

Job Responsibilities:

• Assist in hanging shelf tags, promotional POS/POP materials, and reset sections as needed to drive sales.
• Influence customer orders to drive sales.
• Place orders for products that align with customer needs and effectively display them in stores.
• Seize opportunities to increase sales through creative merchandising techniques.
• Sell promotional and sales programs as assigned.
• Acts as floater/vacation coverage for open routes and will interact with the customer while covering territory and assisting on merchandising projects.
• Responsible for maintaining effective business relations with assigned customers and UNFI stakeholders.
• Visits retailers on Home Store or Field Sales program based on provided schedule to execute customer specific plans.
• Provides effective feedback and follow up.
• Perform duties in accordance with Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) and Safe Quality Food (SQF) policies and procedures, as appropriate for the location.
• Rotate stock and remove out of code products.
• Process merchandise returns and issue credits according to company policy and customer agreement.
• Regularly communicates with key UNFI personnel on competitor activity, sales opportunities, and customer request while servicing customer.
• Develop and implement action plans with assistance from Supervisor or Account Manager on assigned projects. Ensure project deadlines are met and completed within budget. Interpret and facilitate internal reports related to assigned project.
• Regularly exercise discretion and independent judgement in project planning and the selling of UNFI professional services and product lines.
• Extensive travel could be required within assigned geographical area, based on UNFI or customer needs.
• Complete the required paperwork accurately and timely.
• Stay up to date on shelf services technology through training programs and utilizing the corporate Category Management department and Sales team as source of information.
• Performs other relevant job duties as required or assigned.

Job Requirements:

Education/Certification:

• A valid driver’s license is necessary.
• Auto insurance levels that meet UNFI requirements.

Experience:

• Minimum 1-year related experience in retail or distribution.
• Prior sales or customer service experience in a retail setting.
• Food related product experience is preferred.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Time management skills and attention to detail.
• Basic math abilities.
• Ability to motivate and work with others to achieve desired results.
• Ability to read, understand, and implement planograms.
• Basic to intermediate computer skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Good judgment is required for this position as there may be times when direct supervision may not be immediately available.

Physical Environment/Demands:

• Daily travel is required and access to reliable vehicle is necessary.
• Ability to get in and out of car multiple times per day.
• Drive to and from accounts safely in city, rural, and expressway conditions.
• Automobile travel estimations of 30% per week
• Ability to set up displays, fixtures, shelving, and products.
• Able to tolerate exposure to store and warehouse conditions including wide variances in temperature, dust, and dirt.
• Requires lifting of up to 50 lbs.
• Must be able to work with hands and arms overhead and to work in or under the equipment.
• Requires manual dexterity, overall coordination, and good balance to work both at ground level and occasionally in high places to perform job duties.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. UNFI is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive and respectful environment for all. - M/F/Veteran/Disability. VEVRAA Federal Contractor.