Product Development Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Richmond Wholesale Company is a certified MBE headquartered in Richmond California. Founded in 1959, Richmond is a leading global food manufacturer which provides over 10,000 top-quality frozen, chilled and dry food products to the US Military. IMB invested in Richmond in 2020 and is an active IMB Partner.  This role can be located in their Richmond, CA or Gardena, CA offices on a hybrid schedule.

POSITION SUMMARY

Working independently and exercising good judgment and discretion, this position is primarily responsible for analyzing the market to identify and pursue product development opportunities with new private label and national brand sources while assessing those capabilities to meet the Company’s strategic goals. These products / services are to be negotiated and contracted at best possible price while maintaining required quality under the Company’s quality standards. These quality standards are based on customer requirements and maintaining a best-in-class service level.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Responsible for strategically researching and developing new and innovative items with prospective suppliers at the best possible market prices while meeting or exceeding quality standards.
• Researches market reports (daily and periodic) and trends, Meat Buyers Guide, and industry-related articles to enhance knowledge base and identify product growth areas.
• Accurately secures and presents complete price quotes for all departments as needed; communicate product opinions to Sales / Account Management teams (i.e., pricing and product quality options and availability of appropriate substitutions).
• Obtains and maintains the most current price lists for all vendors (i.e., daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly).
• Assists in facilitating the recall process, including communication with external vendors and internal Recall Team.
• Works with Accounts Payable and the vendor when issues arise within 24 hours of notification.
• Collaborates with affiliate companies to secure synergistic Company procurement.
• Conducts internal presentations and provides all necessary product information, including point of sale, pricing, product specs, lead time, private label capabilities, and all available exclusive opportunities.
• Prepares, reviews, and negotiates contracts and vendor agreements for legal correctness, price, and acceptability of items to specifications (includes negotiating allowances, discounts, rebates, and term discounts from vendors).
• Obtains and maintains private label specification sheets for all items under their given area of responsibility.
• Visits vendor facilities and assists in the Quality Assurance of the RW products, especially internal private brands.
• Strictly adheres to Richmond Wholesale’s employment policies, departmental operating policies, and all federal and state regulatory and compliance laws pertaining to our business and industry.
• Actively maintains a collaborative spirit / dialogue with other departments and Associates to promote workplace harmony and productivity, embracing and fostering the Company’s mission.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required :

ABILITIES AND COMPETENCIES ESSENTIAL TO THE FUNCTION OF THE JOB

Communication and Comprehension

Problem Solving

Physical and Sensory Abilities