Wholesale Operations Manager (Part-Time)
Accepting applications until filled
The Yellowstone Valley Food Hub (YVFH or the Hub) is a grower’s cooperative based in Billings, MT. It was conceived by a vision of changing the local food network and its systems by a small group of passionate agricultural producers in 2019 and has been growing to meet the demands of the local market steadily. The Hub sells locally produced agricultural products primarily through an online sales platform aimed at the direct to consumer market in Billings, Red Lodge, and surrounding areas. The Hub markets, aggregates, and distributes local meat, veggies, eggs, dairy, and value-added products on a weekly basis year-round. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a Wholesale Operations Manager to play a crucial role in ensuring the efficient distribution of our products to our members and retail partners.
Position Overview: As the Wholesale Operations Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing and optimizing the wholesale operations of our cooperative. You will work closely with the General Manager as well as local farmers, producers, and wholesale partners to ensure the timely and efficient delivery of high-quality food products. This role involves managing inventory, logistics, supplier relationships, and ensuring the seamless flow of products from farm to table.
Key Responsibilities:
Salary & Benefits:
How to Apply: If you are a passionate individual with a strong background in wholesale operations and a commitment to supporting local agriculture, we encourage you to apply for this Wholesale Operations Manager position at Yellowstone Valley Food Hub. Join us in our mission to make fresh, local, and sustainable food accessible to our community. To apply, please send your resume, cover letter, and 2-3 references to [email protected] with the subject line “Wholesale Manager Application, [DATE]”
YVFH is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Email response will be provided within a week and successful candidates will be approached for an interview. This position advertisement is posted until the position is filled.
Position Overview: As the Wholesale Operations Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing and optimizing the wholesale operations of our cooperative. You will work closely with the General Manager as well as local farmers, producers, and wholesale partners to ensure the timely and efficient delivery of high-quality food products. This role involves managing inventory, logistics, supplier relationships, and ensuring the seamless flow of products from farm to table.
Key Responsibilities:
- Supplier Management:
- Initiate, build, and maintain strong relationships with local producers.
- Establish best practices and protocol for negotiating pricing, terms, and agreements with suppliers to ensure competitive pricing and quality products.
- Monitor supplier performance and address any issues promptly.
- Inventory Management:
- Work with the General Manager and staff at Local Food Marketplace (LFM), our online ordering and distribution platform, to determine best practices for management of inventory using the software.
- Oversee inventory levels and implement inventory control measures to minimize waste and spoilage.
- Establish processes on how to best track and manage stock levels to meet demand while avoiding overstocking or shortages.
- Logistics and Distribution:
- Work with the General Manager, other staff, and Board to establish best practices for managing distribution and assess if any upgrades to LFM are needed.
- Plan and optimize the distribution of products.
- Coordinate delivery schedules and routes for efficient and cost-effective transportation.
- Ensure products are delivered in a timely and quality-conscious manner.
- Quality Control:
- Re-evaluate, develop, and enforce quality standards for all products, including freshness, packaging, and labeling.
- Implement quality control processes and address any product quality issues.
- Compliance and Documentation:
- Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and certifications.
- Maintain accurate records of all transactions, invoices, and receipts.
- Collaboration:
- Work closely with the sales and marketing teams to align product offerings with market demand.
- Collaborate with the General Manager, Board, and member-producers to streamline operations and meet cooperative goals.
- Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field (preferred).
- Proven experience in wholesale operations, preferably in the food industry.
- Strong knowledge of local food systems, sustainable farming practices, and cooperative principles.
- Excellent organizational and project management skills.
- Effective communication and negotiation skills.
- Proficiency in inventory management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Salary & Benefits:
- Rate dependent on experience (starting at $17/hr) and performance-based bonuses.
- Part-time at 15 hrs/week to start.
- Opportunity to work with a passionate, community-focused team.
- Support local agriculture and sustainable food production.
- Opportunity for professional growth within the cooperative.
How to Apply: If you are a passionate individual with a strong background in wholesale operations and a commitment to supporting local agriculture, we encourage you to apply for this Wholesale Operations Manager position at Yellowstone Valley Food Hub. Join us in our mission to make fresh, local, and sustainable food accessible to our community. To apply, please send your resume, cover letter, and 2-3 references to [email protected] with the subject line “Wholesale Manager Application, [DATE]”
YVFH is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Email response will be provided within a week and successful candidates will be approached for an interview. This position advertisement is posted until the position is filled.