Retail Rescue & Procurement Manager

Arkansas Foodbank•Little Rock, AR

1d•$55,000

About The Position

The Retail Rescue & Procurement Manager is responsible for overseeing the Arkansas Foodbank’s Retail Rescue Program, supervising Donation Coordinators, and supporting the organization’s purchasing activities. This position cultivates strong relationships with retail partners, strengthens food donation programs, and ensures efficient, accurate purchasing aligned with the Foodbank’s inventory and distribution needs. The Retail Rescue and Procurement Manager works closely with the Food Sourcing Director, Warehouse, Transportation, Inventory Control, and external partners to maximize donated and purchased food while upholding the Arkansas Foodbank’s mission, values, and operational standards. Arkansas Foodbank team members will demonstrate a commitment to our mission and to the fight against hunger in Arkansas. They must have a clear understanding of and ability to articulate the mission and vision of Arkansas Foodbank and a desire to work with diverse populations. Team members must exemplify Arkansas Foodbank values while representing the organization at public, social, and business settings. The statements contained herein describe the scope of the responsibility and essential functions of this position but should not be considered to be an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned including work in other areas to cover absences or to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance the workload. Individuals in this position may occasionally work irregular hours as necessary. The Retail Rescue & Procurement Manager will be comfortable learning new technology, as well as an eagerness to utilize Arkansas Foodbank software systems. They will possess strong interpersonal skills, a spirit of collaboration and teamwork, and a commitment to hunger relief.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Business or a related field AND two years of experience in purchasing, or food sourcing, donor relations, purchasing, retail operations, supply chain, or related field. Or
Associate degree, preferably in Business or a related field AND three to five years of experience in food sourcing, donor relations, purchasing, retail operations, supply chain, or related field.
Skilled in the use of computer operations and software, including Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel
Valid Arkansas driver’s license and proof of insurance required
Must pass a background check
Must pass a preemployment drug screening

Nice To Haves

Strong relationship-building and customer service mindset.
Knowledge of retail operations, donor cultivation, or food industry practices.
Experience with purchasing processes and vendor evaluation.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and enterprise inventory systems.
Ability to coach and supervise staff effectively.
Knowledge of food safety, USDA guidelines, and Department of Transportation basics.
Ability to multitask, meet deadlines, and work independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage the Retail Rescue Program, which partners with grocery retailers and other food donors to recover usable surplus food; coordinating store relationships, pickup logistics, food safety compliance, and reporting to maximize donated poundage.
Supervise, mention, and evaluate Donation Coordinators; provide guidance, coaching, and professional development.
Monitor program metrics (pounds per store, donation readiness, donor participation) and implement improvement strategies.
Develop, cultivate, and maintain relationships with retail donors including grocery stores, distributors, farmers, manufacturers, and other food industry partners.
Visit donor sites regularly, foster positive relationships, and identify opportunities to increase donation volume and frequency.
Maintain and strengthen relationships with lapsed donors; support partner agencies with retail site relationships.
Represent the Foodbank professionally at donor meetings, industry events, store visits, and community engagements.
Assist with purchasing fresh produce and other high-need items to maintain inventory targets and meet Foodbank program requirements.
Obtain quotes, evaluate pricing, and make purchasing recommendations based on program needs, budget, and sourcing strategy.
Collaborate with Inventory Control and Receiving to resolve any issues related to donated or purchased loads.
Create and maintain accurate purchase orders, donation orders, and vendor/donor records within the enterprise database.
Prepare monthly, and quarterly retail rescue reporting, including program performance, donor activity, and pounds received.
Ensure data accuracy within the enterprise database regarding donors, vendors, pricing, billing, and program designations.
Work closely with the Food Sourcing Director to track objectives, identify opportunities, and support strategic sourcing initiatives.
Coordinate with Logistics and Transportation to ensure timely pickups, deliveries, and donor service.
Participate in training, staff meetings, and conferences as required.