FOOD HUB DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR
Location: 550 Malpeque Rd., Charlottetown, PE
Reports To: Executive Director of Growers Station
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: $39,000 – $49,000 per year, commensurate with experience
Start Date: As soon as possible
Deadline to apply: Applications deadline is 12:00pm (noon) Friday, February 21, 2025
Position Overview:
The Growers Station Food Hub Distribution Coordinator is responsible for running the daily operations of food distribution at Growers Station Food Hub. This role is crucial in ensuring the efficient and accurate delivery of food supplies to various retailers, restaurants, community organizations, local markets, food pantries, or other partners. The Distribution Coordinator will be the lead for the distribution team, comprising part-time delivery drivers, and part-time seasonal food packers. They are responsible for coordinating distribution logistics, including distribution and product pick-up routes, maintaining accuracy in an inventory online system, and ensuring compliance with food safety standards.
Key Responsibilities:
-
Team Supervision & Management:
- Supervise a team of distribution staff, including drivers and seasonal staff such as part-time food packers (usually summer months only).
- Provide on-the-job training and support to the staff team reporting to the Distribution Coordinator, including evaluations and feedback on job performance
- Ensure effective scheduling and staffing to meet operational needs.
- Foster a positive work environment focused on collaboration, efficiency, and safety.
-
Sales
- Manage and monitor the ordering and inventory platform on Growers Station’s website, ensuring information and inventory is up-to-date and orders are confirmed and accurate.
- Support farmers and producers in the use of the website, in marketing their products, and provide a link between the suppliers and customers to relay feedback as required.
- Communicating with customers, informing them of current product availability, educating them of the seasonality, ensuring orders are placed within the ordering period, and upselling whenever possible.
- Maintain financial records in QuickBooks, tracking sales, expenses, and payments.
-
Distribution & Logistics:
- Plan, coordinate and oversee daily distribution operations, including organizing efficient delivery and product pick-ups.
- Ensure timely and accurate delivery of products to customers while maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction.
- Maintain and optimize distribution routes for cost-effectiveness and timely deliveries.
- Coordinate vehicle maintenance.
-
Inventory Management:
- Monitor inventory levels, track stock, and ensure that food supplies are stored and distributed according to established guidelines.
- Perform regular inventory audits to ensure accuracy and compliance with food safety regulations.
- Collaborate with producers and drivers to ensure proper handling, storage, and rotation of food products.
-
Compliance & Safety:
- Ensure all operations are in compliance with local food safety regulations.
- Monitor adherence to health and safety protocols and including proper food handling, sanitation.
- Maintain accurate records for inspections, safety audits, and product traceability.
-
Problem Solving & Issue Resolution:
- Identify and resolve any logistical, operational, or customer service challenges.
- Respond to and resolve any complaints or discrepancies in delivery and inventory.
- Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service quality.
-
Communication & Reporting:
- Liaise with farmers, producers, restaurants, retail stores and other partnered organizations to ensure smooth communication and coordination of distribution activities.
- Provide regular reports on inventory, delivery schedules, and team performance to the Executive Director.
- Ensure that communication within the team is clear, effective, and timely.
- Maintain a positive attitude as part of a meaningful team
Qualifications:
-
Education & Experience:
- High school diploma or equivalent required; degree, diploma or experience in logistics, supply chain management, or a related field preferred.
- Preference for experience in the food industry, with at least 1 year in any supervisory role.
- Experience in distribution, logistics, or warehouse operations
- Experience working in a non-profit, community-focused, or food-related organization is considered an asset.
-
Skills & Competencies:
- Goal-driven and target-oriented
- Leadership and team management skills
- Knowledge of food safety standards, warehouse operations, and distribution logistics
- Proficiency in learning inventory management software, transportation management systems, and record keeping software
- Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills
- Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing priorities
- Ability to lift heavy items (up to 50 lbs).
- Valid driver’s license and a clean driving record
- Food safety certification preferred
Work Conditions:
- Fast-paced, hands-on work environment.
- Requires physical activity, including lifting, standing, and walking for extended periods.
- Schedule varies seasonally, early morning start time may be required depending on distribution schedules.
- Safety protocols and PPE must be adhered to at all times.
Compensation & Benefits:
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
- Sick leave (5 days).
- Opportunities for career growth and development within the organization.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their resume and cover letter preferably as a single PDF document to growers@growersstation.ca. The deadline to apply is Friday, February 21 at noon (12:00 PM).
Join us at Growers Station and be part of a team dedicated to supporting local farmers and delivering fresh, local food to our community!
