Job Description

Company Overview

The Big Carrot is a worker-owned natural food market committed to local, organic, non-GMO, and sustainable food systems since 1983. We offer a diverse range of products including produce, groceries, and healthy prepared foods while fostering community through education and outreach.

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced, strategic, and results-driven Produce Director to oversee the fresh produce operations across The Big Carrot locations. This role is responsible for the end-to-end management of produce procurement, supplier relationships, merchandising, and in-store execution. The ideal candidate will ensure consistent, high-quality customer experiences across all store locations, while driving sales, profitability, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement & Supply Chain

Lead all aspects of produce procurement for the chain, including sourcing, negotiating contracts, and managing vendor relationships. Identify and evaluate new suppliers to ensure competitive pricing, quality, and availability. Forecast demand, manage inventory levels, and reduce waste across the supply chain.

Supplier Relationships

Build and maintain strong partnerships with regional growers, distributors, and wholesalers. Ensure suppliers meet quality, food safety, and delivery standards. Collaborate with suppliers on promotional opportunities and seasonal product planning.

KPI Development & Performance Tracking

Define and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as shrink, margin, product turns, availability, and freshness. Use data-driven insights to guide buying decisions, reduce spoilage, and improve gross margins. Regularly report performance results to leadership and store teams.

Program & Process Development

Develop and implement a comprehensive Produce Program to ensure a consistent product mix, display standards, and customer experience across all store locations. Standardize operational procedures and merchandising practices. Collaborate with store teams to support execution at the store level.

Assortment & Merchandising

Curate a compelling produce assortment tailored to customer preferences, seasonal trends, and local demand. Oversee planograms, signage, and promotional strategies to drive sales and visual appeal. Monitor category performance and adjust assortment accordingly.

Cross-functional Collaboration

Partner with Operations Manager, Marketing, and Finance to coordinate promotions, new item rollouts, and pricing strategies. Support store teams with product knowledge, training, and best practices.

Retail Support & Physical Requirements

Provide hands-on support to store teams to ensure proper execution of produce merchandising, quality standards, and promotional programs. Conduct regular store visits to coach department managers, assess execution, and identify opportunities for improvement. Lead by example in setting and maintaining operational standards across all store locations. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs as needed when supporting in-store execution, stocking, or product handling. Comfortable working in refrigerated environments and standing for extended periods during store visits or resets.

Qualifications

Minimum 5 years of experience in produce management, procurement, and merchandising--preferably in a multi-unit grocery environment. Proven track record of growing produce sales through strategic assortment planning, merchandising, and supplier partnerships. Demonstrated success in developing and mentoring produce leaders and department managers, fostering high-performing teams. Experience running efficient departments, with strong focus on labor planning, productivity, and cost control. Proven success in vendor negotiation and supplier relationship management. Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret sales data, manage budgets, and optimize inventory. Demonstrated ability to create and implement scalable programs across multiple locations. Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills. Deep knowledge of fresh produce categories, trends, and perishability factors. Ability to travel between store locations, to competitors, suppliers and the food terminal as needed
The Big Carrot is committed to providing accommodations for people with disabilities. If you require an accommodation, let us know in advance and we will work with you to meet your needs.

Only those candidates who are shortlisted will be contacted for an interview.

Please note only those individuals legally entitled to work in Canada will be considered for employment with the Big Carrot.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $56,500.00-$80,500.00 per year

Benefits:

Casual dress Dental care Employee assistance program Paid time off Profit sharing Store discount Vision care
Experience:

produce management, procurement, and merchandising: 5 years (required)
Work Location: In person