MUSTS: Must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Must have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience and the ability to work independently and make informed decisions. Must have strong leadership and team management skills. Must have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, as well as excellent organizational and logistical abilities. Applicants should have business experience providing an understanding of margins, cost structures, and financials, with strong capability in bill management. Above all, must possess the enthusiasm, passion, and know-how to go the extra mile for customers and producers. Must be able to pass a background check and/or drug testing.

SKILLS: Passion for local food systems and sustainable agriculture. Proven track record in business required, with additional experience in any of the following: driving, mechanics, fleet management, customer service, warehousing, sales, accounting, agriculture, restaurants, foodservice, commercial kitchen work, value-added food production, management, and software. Proficient in email/test/phone, basic website design, Microsoft Office, Quickbooks, and acuity to understand our in-house logistics software, Local Orbit. Proven financial management.

DUTIES: As the General Manager, you will learn, understand, and oversee the jobs of Driver, Aggregator, Markets Manager, Warehouse Manager, Operations Manager, Bookkeeper, Kitchen Manager, Sales Manager, and Fleet Manager. You will be responsible for leadership in company culture, customer service, producer relationships, and marketing communications. This includes coordinating with transport companies on logistics and overseeing the truck fleet, collaborating with other food hubs on trades, managing commercial kitchen operations, ensuring food safety, maintaining Organic Certifications, and liaising with regulatory agencies.

Leadership and Management: Provide strategic direction and leadership to the operations, in coordination with the San Luis Valley Local Foods Coalition; Oversee daily operations, ensuring efficient and effective processes; Manage and mentor a diverse team, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment; and Develop and implement business plans, budgets, and strategies for growth.

Operations and Logistics: Ensure the smooth operation of the food distribution process, from producer to consumer; Optimize logistics and supply chain processes for efficiency and cost-effectiveness; Perform truck fleet management by overseeing vehicle conditions, and negotiating with mechanics, leasing companies, insurance providers, and more; Oversee inventory management, including tracking, storage, and quality control.

Producer and Consumer Relations: Build and maintain strong relationships with local producers, ensuring a diverse and reliable supply of products; Develop and nurture customer relationships, understanding their needs and ensuring high levels of satisfaction; and Implement effective marketing and sales strategies to attract and retain customers.

Financial Management: Oversee financial performance, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, in coordination with Local Foods Coalition administrative staff; Identify and pursue opportunities for revenue growth and cost savings; Ensure compliance with all financial regulations and reporting requirements.

Community Engagement and Advocacy: Represent the Valley Roots Food Hub within the San Luis Valley Local Foods Coalition at monthly meetings and other regular administrative check-ins; Engage with external stakeholders, including community organizations, government agencies, and industry groups; Advocate for policies and initiatives that support local food systems and sustainable agriculture.

WAGES: $58,240-$64,480 per year, depending on experience. Paid Bi-Weekly.

BENEFITS: Remote work and schedule flexibility; 9 Paid Federal Holidays per year and up to 20 days of Paid Time Off per year for personal holidays and sick leave. Reimbursement for mileage and travel time (not including regular commute to Local Food Coalition offices). A Roth Individual Retirement Account (IRA) through Colorado Secure Savings. A 20% discount on food and related products at the Valley Roots Food Hub. Health and dental insurance, with 50% of premiums covered. Potential benefits to be discussed further with the employer.

JOB TO START: As soon as a qualified applicant is hired. Applications accepted until the close of business on September 15, 2024.

DURATION: This is a full-time, permanent position.

SHIFT: This is a full-time, 32-40 hours per week, including occasional evenings and weekends. The exact days and hours are to be determined by the Employer.

HOW TO APPLY: If you meet the minimum requirements for this position, please click on How to Apply to view application information. You must be registered with Connecting Colorado to view the application information (registration is available at no cost).

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San Luis Valley Local Foods Coalition jobs

General Manager