Acts as the key liaison and communicator between the Operating Company and Vistar Corporate, including researching issues and providing guidance to maximize the overall EBITDA of the Operating Company. Responsible for local purchasing, maintaining OpCo fill rate and minimizing overall inventory loss. Also, works with Sales personnel to effectively grow sales, while developing category strategies via vendor sourcing, product selection, costing, and promotions. Participates in product demonstrations, sales calls, sales meeting and customer events/food shows. Nurtures customer and supplier relationships to promote growth and success, which is determined by company growth in sales dollars and increased profit margin. Functions as a team member within the organization and demonstrates the ability to proactively work independently within the operating company as required.

Responsible for managing the Merchandising P&L line items, which include: collection and accrual of Local Funded Deviations, Local LEI, monitoring PCV, and maximizing Promo Income.

Manages supplier credits, including aging, collection, reserve and write offs. Manages aged and obsolete reserve inventory, minimizing overall OpCo shrink.

Manages promotional income as it relates to monthly promo buys, forward price increases, growth programs, efficiency programs, and quarterly and year-end buy ins.

Negotiates and approves all local programs; works with Logistics in developing opportunities on a local or national basis. Provides support to Sales, recommending strategies and assisting in planning trade shows and marketing programs.

Works with key vendors to develop program to assist with sales growth. Provides support to Sales by providing product information training, recommending pricing strategies, and assisting in planning promotions.

Meets with suppliers and brokers at the local level, and evaluates potential new manufacturers and/or line items and makes recommendations to increase the company’s gross profit.

Performs other related duties as assigned.