Job DescriptionPOSITION SUMMARY AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Manager of VMI will be primarily responsible for managing the implementation of the VMI initiative across multiple strategic retail customers; as well as work cross-functionally in a multi-facility environment. The VMI manager will report directly to the Director of Customer Service and partner with Demand Planning, Sales, IT and the customer to help develop, set and implement strategic priorities for the VMI initiative. Additionally, this position will support the regional VMI account teams through inventory management activities to maximize sales performance and productivity at retail while maintaining the highest operational standards for turns, service levels, out-of-stocks, shrink, etc. both hands-on and as a manager / leader member of the Customer Service department.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
1.In alignment with the overall VMI strategy, works closely with Customer Service Director to develop, set and implement priorities for VMI delivering on activities which enable anticipated Manufacturing and Supply Chain efficiencies.
2.Provides indirect leadership and support on VMI strategic goals for the value-added salad segment & ensures timely, coordinated execution against those goals with multifunctional team members.
3.Works closely with IT departments for VMI systems needs / improvements and enhancements, and data validation. Must effectively work with both internal and external partners in this endeavor.
4.Assist in the development of the customer service VMI organization and build competency in Logility Voyager systems. Provides training / on-boarding assistance with VMI Analyst / Supervisors.
5.Identifies the next generation or state-of-the-art VMI solutions. Engage in industry associations or workgroups consisting of other CPG non-compete companies performing VMI of a similar nature in an effort to stay current with technological advancements and insights.
6.Supports the system integration and transition with customers to the VMI platform utilizing PRMS and Logility Voyager systems.
7.Identifies process improvement / best practice enhancement opportunities and effectively implementing across a multifunctional team.
8.Coordinates all changes to product distribution, including but not limited to product discontinuations, new product launches, and new store / reset orders. This should also include maintaining an accurate DC store count matrix and communicate to demand planning any significant change.
9.Develop relationships with buyers and planners at VMI accounts.
10.Provides input into the development of VMI account forecasts, adjusted for various factors including seasonality and other related information.
11.Create and run exception reports for managing forecast, service level, out-of-stocks, etc. (Scorecard performance)
12.Work with outside information data (e.g. iTrade, Food Link, IRI) to improve service and inventory position at VMI accounts.
REQUIREMENTS
5+ yrs experience, preferably in the produce industry.
3+ yrs experience implementing a VMI and managing a multi-facility team. Proven leadership skills.Strong quantitative and analytical skills and problem solving abilities. Ability to generalize based on reasonable samples for given situations. Ability to work effectively in a team environment without constant supervision.
Strong follow-through and prioritization skills, excellent communication skills, strong initiative and sense of urgency.
Proficient in Word and Excel, including ability to use macros, look-up tables and file conversions. Working knowledge of PowerPoint helpful. Conceptual and working knowledge of database and data warehouse systems. Experienced using database software (e.g., Access) and OLAP tools (e.g., Business Objects or Micro-Strategy) a plus.
Education:
BA or BS in business or related field