Sysco, the global leader in foodservice distribution, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Product Support Advisor specializing in produce to join our team in Portland, Oregon. This role is crucial in supporting our sales team and customers with expert knowledge, training, and guidance on our extensive produce offerings. As a Product Support Advisor, you will play a vital role in driving sales, ensuring customer satisfaction, and maintaining strong supplier relationships. You'll be at the forefront of our produce category, contributing to Sysco's continued success and growth in the market.

Role Overview

The Product Support Advisor - Produce is responsible for supporting the department in achieving company goals, including high-end customer order fulfillment and managing inventory to the lowest possible Days Sales Outstanding (DSO). This role involves implementing corporate category strategies and initiatives within the operation company (OpCo), supporting the sales staff with product assortment updates and informational inquiries, and delivering product cutting and training sessions. The Advisor also drives operation company (OpCo) required category initiatives and assortment in harmony with corporate requirements, executes recommended assortment changes, and supports positive local supplier relationships.

A Day in the Life of a Product Support Advisor - Produce

Each day as a Product Support Advisor - Produce will bring new challenges and opportunities. Here's a glimpse into what a typical day might look like:

• Morning: Start the day by reviewing sales data and identifying opportunities to promote specific produce items. Communicate with the sales team to provide updates on market trends and new product offerings.
• Mid-day: Conduct a product cutting session for a key customer, showcasing the quality and versatility of Sysco's produce. Answer questions and provide expert advice on menu planning and product usage.
• Afternoon: Meet with a local produce supplier to discuss pricing, quality, and availability. Negotiate terms to ensure Sysco is receiving the best possible value.
• Late Afternoon: Analyze inventory levels and identify items that need to be discontinued. Work with suppliers to return products and minimize losses.
• End of Day: Prepare a report summarizing the day's activities and outlining key priorities for the following day. Collaborate with the revenue management team to review sales and gross profit results.

Why Portland, Oregon?

Portland, Oregon, is a vibrant and thriving city known for its commitment to sustainability, its thriving culinary scene, and its strong sense of community. The city's rich agricultural heritage and proximity to fertile growing regions make it an ideal location for a produce-focused role. Portland offers a high quality of life with abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, a diverse cultural landscape, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Career Path

Sysco is committed to providing its employees with opportunities for growth and advancement. The Product Support Advisor - Produce role can serve as a springboard to a variety of career paths within the company. Potential career advancements include:

• Category Manager: Oversee the entire produce category, developing and implementing strategies to drive sales and profitability.
• Sales Specialist: Focus on building relationships with key customers and providing them with customized solutions.
• Supplier Relations Manager: Manage relationships with Sysco's key produce suppliers, negotiating contracts and ensuring quality and availability.
• Regional Sales Manager: Lead and manage a team of sales representatives, driving sales growth in a specific geographic region.

Salary & Benefits

Sysco offers a competitive salary and benefits package that is designed to attract and retain top talent. The estimated salary range for the Product Support Advisor - Produce role in Portland, Oregon, is $60,000 to $85,000 per year. In addition to salary, Sysco offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Paid holidays
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Health savings account (HSA)
• Flexible spending account (FSA)
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Professional development opportunities
• Wellness programs
• Employee discount program
• Opportunities for advancement
• Relocation assistance (if applicable)
• Bonus eligibility

Sysco Culture

Sysco is a company that values its employees and is committed to creating a positive and inclusive work environment. We believe in teamwork, collaboration, and open communication. Our employees are empowered to make decisions and are encouraged to take initiative. We are also committed to giving back to the communities where we live and work.

How to Apply

If you are a highly motivated and experienced professional with a passion for produce, we encourage you to apply for the Product Support Advisor - Produce role at Sysco in Portland, Oregon. To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter through our online application portal. We look forward to hearing from you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the key responsibilities of a Product Support Advisor - Produce? The Product Support Advisor - Produce is responsible for supporting the sales team and customers with expert knowledge, training, and guidance on Sysco's extensive produce offerings. This includes implementing corporate category strategies, managing inventory, and building strong supplier relationships.
2. What qualifications are required for this role? A Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience is required, along with 3+ years of experience in a retail, wholesale, or distribution environment. Strong communication, negotiation, and analytical skills are also essential.
3. What is the typical career path for this role? The Product Support Advisor - Produce role can serve as a springboard to a variety of career paths within Sysco, including Category Manager, Sales Specialist, Supplier Relations Manager, and Regional Sales Manager.
4. What is the salary range for this position? The estimated salary range for the Product Support Advisor - Produce role in Portland, Oregon, is $60,000 to $85,000 per year.
5. What benefits does Sysco offer? Sysco offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, paid time off, paid holidays, a 401(k) retirement plan, an employee stock purchase plan, and more.
6. What is the company culture like at Sysco? Sysco is a company that values its employees and is committed to creating a positive and inclusive work environment. We believe in teamwork, collaboration, and open communication.
7. What opportunities are there for professional development? Sysco is committed to providing its employees with opportunities for growth and development. We offer tuition reimbursement, professional development programs, and opportunities for advancement.
8. Is relocation assistance available for this position? Relocation assistance may be available for this position, depending on the candidate's circumstances.
9. What are the key skills needed for this role? Key skills needed for this role include category management, supplier negotiation, inventory management, sales support, product training, and strong communication and analytical skills.
10. How does Sysco support local communities? Sysco is committed to giving back to the communities where we live and work. We support a variety of local organizations and initiatives.