Produce Specialist at Sysco | FreshPoint San Francisco

Are you passionate about fresh produce and connecting local farms with customers? Do you thrive in a fast-paced sales environment and enjoy building relationships? If so, a career as a Produce Specialist at Sysco's FreshPoint San Francisco might be the perfect fit for you!

Role Overview

As a Produce Specialist, you will be the vital link between local farmers and our FreshPoint customers. Your mission is to build and maintain strong relationships with both suppliers and customers, ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality, locally sourced produce. This role involves sales, account management, and a deep understanding of the local agricultural landscape. You'll work closely with farmers, helping them meet food safety requirements and forecast their production to align with customer demand. On the customer side, you will identify their needs and recommend the best local produce options to meet their culinary requirements.

A Day in the Life

Here's a glimpse of what a typical day might look like for a Produce Specialist:

• Morning: Start by reviewing sales data and identifying key opportunities for local produce sales. Contact local farmers to check on availability and quality of produce.
• Mid-day: Meet with chefs and restaurant owners to discuss their produce needs and present them with options from local farms. Conduct product sampling to showcase the quality and flavor of local produce.
• Afternoon: Work with the food safety team to ensure that all local vendors adhere to food safety standards. Onboard new vendors and maintain accurate records in the AS400 system.
• Late Afternoon: Prepare reports on local produce sales and market trends. Collaborate with the sales and merchandising teams to develop strategies for promoting local produce.

Why San Francisco?

San Francisco is a hub for culinary innovation and a strong supporter of local agriculture. By working in this region, you'll have access to a diverse range of local farms and a discerning customer base that values high-quality, sustainably sourced produce. This location offers the opportunity to make a real impact on the local food system while building a rewarding career.

Career Path

The Produce Specialist role is an excellent stepping stone for career advancement within Sysco. Here are some potential career paths you could pursue:

• Senior Produce Specialist: Take on more complex accounts and lead sales initiatives for local produce.
• Produce Buyer: Focus on sourcing and procurement of produce from local and regional farms.
• Sales Manager: Lead and mentor a team of sales representatives.
• Category Manager: Oversee the entire produce category for a specific region or business unit.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for a Produce Specialist at Sysco FreshPoint in San Francisco is competitive and depends on your experience, skills, and qualifications. Sysco also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Tuition reimbursement

For specific details on compensation and benefits, please visit SyscoBenefits.com.

Sysco Culture

Sysco is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected. We believe that our employees are our greatest asset, and we invest in their development and success. At Sysco, you'll be part of a team that is passionate about food, customer service, and making a positive impact on the communities we serve.

How to Apply

If you are ready to join the Sysco FreshPoint team as a Produce Specialist, we encourage you to apply online through our careers website. Please submit your resume and cover letter, highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications. We look forward to hearing from you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the key responsibilities of a Produce Specialist?

   The key responsibilities include building relationships with local farmers, selling their products to FreshPoint customers, ensuring food safety compliance, and managing vendor onboarding.

2. What qualifications are required for this role?

   A high school diploma or GED is required, along with 3+ years of sales experience in a related field and a deep understanding of produce categories. A bachelor's degree is preferred.

3. What skills are essential for success in this role?

   Essential skills include sales, customer relationship management, local sourcing, food safety knowledge, and communication.

4. What is the career path for a Produce Specialist at Sysco?

   Potential career paths include Senior Produce Specialist, Produce Buyer, Sales Manager, and Category Manager.

5. What benefits does Sysco offer its employees?

   Sysco offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, a 401(k) plan, and tuition reimbursement.

6. What is the work environment like at Sysco?

   Sysco is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

7. How does a Produce Specialist contribute to Sysco's success?

   A Produce Specialist contributes by building strong relationships with local farmers, increasing sales of local produce, and ensuring customer satisfaction.

8. What kind of training is provided for this role?

   Sysco provides on-the-job training and ongoing professional development opportunities to help employees succeed in their roles.

9. What are the opportunities for advancement at Sysco?

   Sysco offers a wide range of opportunities for advancement, depending on your skills, experience, and career goals.

10. Is prior experience in the food service industry required?

    Prior experience in the food service industry or with produce sales is highly desirable, but not always required. We are looking for candidates with a passion for food and a strong commitment to customer service.