Product Specialist at Sysco | FreshPoint San Francisco

Role Overview

As a Product Specialist at FreshPoint San Francisco, a Sysco company, you will play a crucial role in connecting local farmers and suppliers with our customers. This position requires a blend of sales acumen, agricultural knowledge, and relationship-building skills. You will be responsible for sourcing high-quality, local produce, ensuring food safety standards are met, and fostering strong relationships with both suppliers and customers. Your efforts will directly contribute to the growth of FreshPoint's local produce program and the success of our customers.

A Day in the Life

Each day as a Product Specialist is dynamic and varied. You might start your day by visiting local farms to assess product quality and availability, negotiating prices, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. You'll spend time communicating with the sales and merchandising teams to update them on market conditions, new products, and potential applications. You will also work on onboarding new vendors, managing contracts, and ensuring all necessary documentation is in place. Another part of your day involves connecting with chefs and other customers, providing them with information on local produce options, marketing materials, and product lists to support their local purchasing efforts. Data analysis and reporting will also be a regular part of your routine, helping you identify opportunities and track your progress.

Why San Francisco, California?

San Francisco is a vibrant culinary hub with a strong emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. The city's diverse population and thriving restaurant scene create a high demand for quality produce. Located near numerous farms and agricultural regions, San Francisco offers unparalleled access to a wide variety of local products. As a Product Specialist in this area, you will be at the heart of this exciting market, contributing to the success of local farmers and providing customers with the freshest ingredients available. The location also provides significant opportunities for career advancement within Sysco, given the company's presence and growth in the region. The temperate climate in San Francisco allows for an extended growing season, providing a consistent supply of local produce throughout the year.

Career Path

The Product Specialist role is an excellent starting point for a rewarding career within Sysco. From this position, you can advance to roles such as Senior Product Specialist, where you would take on more strategic responsibilities and mentor junior team members. Further advancement opportunities include positions in sales management, procurement, or supply chain management. Sysco is committed to employee development and provides various training programs and resources to help you grow your skills and advance your career. The experience gained in this role, combined with Sysco's commitment to internal promotion, creates a clear path for professional growth within the company.

Salary and Benefits

While the exact salary for this role is not explicitly stated, a Product Specialist in the San Francisco area can expect to earn a competitive salary, reflecting the cost of living and the demand for skilled professionals in the food industry. A reasonable estimate for this role is between $85,000 and $145,000 annually. In addition to a competitive salary, Sysco offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), a 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match, paid time off, and employee stock purchase options. These benefits are designed to support your overall well-being and financial security.

Sysco Culture

Sysco is known for its commitment to integrity, teamwork, and customer service. The company fosters a culture of continuous improvement and encourages employees to take initiative and contribute their ideas. Sysco values diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all employees. The company also emphasizes safety and sustainability, striving to minimize its environmental impact and promote responsible business practices. Employees at Sysco are passionate about food and dedicated to providing customers with the highest quality products and services. Sysco's commitment to its employees and its customers makes it a great place to work and build a career.

How to Apply

To apply for the Product Specialist position at FreshPoint San Francisco, please visit the Sysco careers website. Search for the job posting using the job title or location. Review the job description carefully and ensure that you meet the qualifications. Submit your resume and cover letter, highlighting your relevant experience and skills. Be sure to emphasize your sales experience, knowledge of produce, and relationship-building abilities. If your qualifications align with the requirements, you will be contacted for an interview. The interview process may include phone interviews, in-person interviews, and a presentation or skills assessment. Be prepared to discuss your experience, your understanding of the food industry, and your passion for delivering excellent customer service. Good luck with your application!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the key responsibilities of a Product Specialist at FreshPoint?
   The key responsibilities include building relationships with local farmers and suppliers, purchasing and selling their products to FreshPoint customers, ensuring food safety compliance, and providing market information to the sales team and customers.
2. What qualifications are required for this position?
   A high school diploma or GED is required, along with 3+ years of sales experience in a related field. A bachelor's degree in a related field is preferred.
3. What skills are important for success in this role?
   Important skills include sales acumen, agricultural knowledge, relationship-building skills, communication skills, and data analysis skills.
4. What is the typical career path for a Product Specialist at Sysco?
   From the Product Specialist role, you can advance to positions such as Senior Product Specialist, sales management, procurement, or supply chain management.
5. What is the salary range for this position?
   While the exact salary is not disclosed, a reasonable estimate for this role in San Francisco is between $85,000 and $145,000 annually.
6. What benefits does Sysco offer to its employees?
   Sysco offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, a 401(k) retirement savings plan, paid time off, and employee stock purchase options.
7. What is the company culture like at Sysco?
   Sysco fosters a culture of integrity, teamwork, and customer service. The company values diversity and inclusion and encourages continuous improvement.
8. How can I apply for the Product Specialist position at FreshPoint?
   To apply, visit the Sysco careers website and search for the job posting using the job title or location. Submit your resume and cover letter online.
9. What should I expect during the interview process?
   The interview process may include phone interviews, in-person interviews, and a presentation or skills assessment.
10. What opportunities are there for professional development at Sysco?
    Sysco provides various training programs and resources to help employees grow their skills and advance their careers.