Overview Evaluate vendors/purchasing program to ensure that animal health merchandise is sourced and purchased to provide the best possible value to co-op patrons. Provide assistance to the Store Manager, staff and retail personnel on various projects and programs. Duties Ensure that Gross margins are adequate to provide for profitable operation of the Co-op within assigned sales categories; review gross margins on a regular basis to look for increased retail margin opportunities; maintain profitable gross margins within categories and update costs/retail as needed. Research inventory discrepancies and work with retail locations to resolve problems. Assist stores with special order inventory items and work with retail associates to locate and approve new suppliers. Monitor various reports from the Merchant system and utilize those other electronic information systems to assist in maximizing retail profits. Assist in educating and training retail associates on product knowledge and operations training; schedule training with Co-op vendors, others to help improve employee product knowledge. Work with retail stores/advertising manager to direct Co-op promotional efforts and maximize advertising investment. Solicit and evaluate bids from suppliers, select vendors, pool orders to maximize pricing/payment terms, and help control inventory levels on product. Develop a list of items for Co-op sales flyers, and work to monitor inventory levels to support promotions, communicate with retail stores on manufacturer promotions/special offers. Monitor competitors' promotional materials to ensure that Co-op retail stores remain competitive in the marketplace. Attend trade shows and vendor events to look at new products/programs and evaluate their potential for Co-op stores. Assist Store Manager, other staff associates on special projects as requested. Assist in identifying potential special events and work on planning and execution of these promotions. Work with the General Manager, retail stores, and others on developing retail budget numbers. Participate in industry events and groups to help provide maximum exposure to the Co-op. Help monitor retail inventory levels and assist stores in identifying slow moving/obsolete inventory and assist in developing plans to liquidate it. Develop and contribute content/promotions/promotional items to feature on the Co-op website and social networking sites. Review assigned vendor invoices for accuracy in pricing, terms, etc.; follow up on discrepancies on vendor billing. Perform any and all duties necessary to help provide for the profitable operation of the Co-op.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

Education:

High School graduate or General Education Degree (GED)

Experience:

2 years of animal health experience preferred and agricultural background preferred,

Computer Skills:

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Programs; ability to learn company software; ordering through vendor sites; and ability to learn newer versions of Microsoft Office, Must be able to speak, read, write, and comprehend English.

ADDITIONAL NOTES

This job description reflects management's assignment of essential and central functions of this job; It does not restrict management's rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time; Changes to this job description should be expected to meet the changing needs of the business and its customers.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$15.00 - $17.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Experience:

Animal Health:

2 years (Preferred) Ability to

Commute:

Staunton, VA 24401 (Required)

Work Location:

In person