A Raw Fruit Account Manager responsible for procuring fruit from growers and packers to support company production needs and sourcing strategies. The position builds solid relationships with growers, packers, and suppliers while holding them responsible for commitments and expectations. This role works closely with Logistics and Production Planning to coordinate fruit supply, movement, and plant needs. The Raw Fruit Account Manager is expected to work independently, take initiative, identify and address issues proactively, and drive issues through resolution.

Required:

• A BA/BS degree in agriculture, horticulture, business or related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in procurement, supply chain, or operations, preferably in an agricultural, food manufacturing, or business environment.
• Driver's license from state of residency is required.
• Washington produce buyer's license is preferred. 
• Demonstrated working knowledge of SQF and GAP certification is preferred.
• General understanding of the fruit industry, packhouse procedures, and fruit handling practices.
• Principles and practices of inventory management.
• Broad knowledge of the agricultural business and the cycles/seasons that affect the market.
• Principles and practices of supply chain, related to perishable food items.
• Pertinent Federal, State, and local laws, codes and regulations.
• Frequently works in outdoors, manufacturing/plant, or cold storage environments and occasionally has exposures to an office environment

• Manage assigned packer and supplier relationships, including fruit availability, inventory, quality, pricing, specifications, and execution against commitments. Proactively address performance issues and hold suppliers responsible while maintaining strong working relationships. Ensure Food Safety Documentation from packers is complete and current in the Tree Top systems.
• Manage grower procurement activities including orchard run diversions, contracts, and cash purchases. Coordinate bin requirements, transportation, tagging, harvest timing, estimated volumes, food safety documentation, and payment accuracy. Maintain regular communication with growers to ensure commitments are met and issues are addressed timely.
• Work closely with Logistics and Production Planning to coordinate fruit availability, movement, pack schedules, inventory, and plant requirements. Monitor execution against sourcing strategies and supplier commitments. Proactively address issues that could impact fruit supply or production and follow through to ensure timely resolution. 
• Attend and actively participate in state and or local committees relevant to the company, representing the company professionally while building strong relationships with industry stakeholders. Contribute to discussions on fruit supply, production planning, product mix, and pricing strategies.
• Interact with administration, scale house personnel and production personnel on specific orders to validate pay rates, grades, weights and quality issues.  This is a critical step that must be done timely to ensure accurate payment.