Purpose: The Retail Merchandising Sales Rep (RMSR) is responsible for driving sales and delivering consistent, high-quality merchandising services at assigned customer locations. This includes ordering products, stocking shelves, executing resets and remodels, and supporting continuity and cycle coverage programs. At times, the RMSR may also assist with stretch projects and may receive directions from Coordinators, Supervisors, Managers, or Directors within Shelf Services.

Job Responsibilities:

Core Responsibilities

·       Influence customer orders by identifying sales opportunities and recommending item discontinuations. Place orders, merchandise products, hang shelf tags, and set promotional materials. Execute resets to drive sales. Sell promotional and sales programs as assigned. Follow through on all customer product requests.

·       Serve as the primary contact for assigned customers and merchandising projects. Execute customer-specific plans during scheduled visits and provide feedback to UNFI stakeholders. Visits retailers on Field Sales or Home Store program on a provided Schedule to execute customer specific plans. Follow HACCP and SQF guidelines as applicable.

·       Rotate stock, remove out-of-code items, and process returns/credits per company policy and customer agreements.

·       Regularly communicates with Key UNFI Personnel on competitor activity, sales opportunities, customer request and any other significant issues. 

·       Collaborate with supervisors or account managers to develop action plans for assigned projects. Ensure deadlines and budgets are met. Interpret internal reports as needed.

·       Exercise discretion and independent judgment in project planning and selling UNFI Professional Services and product lines.

·       Extensive travel could be required within assigned geographical area, based on customer needs

·       Complete required documentation accurately and on time. Stay current on Shelf Services technology and tools through training and collaboration with Category Management and Sales teams.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements:

Education/ Certifications:

·       High School graduate required.

·       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 and and customer service experience in a retail setting. 

·       Food related product experience desired.

·       Bilingual – Spanish a plus.

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.

Work Environment:

Remote Role:

·       This position is classified as remote where the associate will perform remote work from their primary residence. Remote associates are welcome to work from the office but are not required to do so. While remote associates are not required to work from an office on a regular basis, they may be required to come to the office or other UNFI locations for necessary business reasons or if directed to do so by their manager.

Travel (major):

·       Travel is required up to (95)% for this position.

Physical Environment/Demands:

·       Daily travel is required and access to a 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

·       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

·       Ability to lift up to 40 lbs