Food Manager Trainee

Key Responsibilities:

• Work alongside the Food Store Manager to learn daily store operations, leadership responsibilities, merchandising standards, inventory control processes, scheduling concepts, and operational procedures in preparation for future leadership opportunities.
• Provide exceptional guest service by responding to customer inquiries, promoting Co-op products and services, resolving concerns professionally, and contributing to a World Class Customer Experience.
• Assist with food preparation, production, packaging, labeling, product rotation, merchandising displays, stocking shelves, and maintaining product quality standards throughout the store.
• Learn and apply Occupational Health & Safety requirements, WHMIS standards, food safety procedures, sanitation practices, asset protection standards, and Heritage Co-op policies while promoting a culture of safety.
• Complete administrative duties including reports, inventory documentation, receiving processes, operational paperwork, and other assigned tasks to support efficient store operations.
• Support department projects, promotional activities, seasonal displays, inventory counts, store initiatives, and other operational priorities while working collaboratively with Team Leaders and management.

• Upon completion of the program, the Food Manager Trainee may be assigned to a location within our market area.

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Post-secondary education in Business, Retail Management, Agriculture, Food Service, Management, Commerce, or a related field is considered an asset.
• Previous retail, grocery, food service, hospitality, or customer service experience is required.
• Leadership, supervisory, team lead, or management experience is considered an asset.
• Experience within a food retail environment is considered an asset.
• Experience working with inventory, merchandising, food production, food preparation tools or retail operations is preferred.
• Food Safe Certification is considered an asset.
• WHMIS Certification is considered an asset.
• Strong leadership potential and a desire to pursue a career in retail management.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

• Applicants must have a reliable vehicle and a willingness to work in various assigned locations within our market area. Valid driver's license is considered an asset.

• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work a flexible schedule including days, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to safely operate food preparation and merchandising equipment.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull merchandise and equipment as required.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Competencies:

• Customer Focus: Builds positive relationships with members and guests while consistently delivering exceptional service.
• Leadership Potential: Demonstrates initiative, accountability, sound judgment, and a willingness to develop management competencies.
• Communicates Effectively: Shares information clearly, listens actively, and communicates professionally with team members and customers.
• Collaborates: Works effectively with others to achieve departmental and organizational goals.
• Operational Excellence: Supports efficient store operations while maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and service.
• Attention to Detail: Maintains accuracy in merchandising, food production, inventory management, and operational documentation.
• Adaptability: Responds positively to changing priorities and evolving operational requirements.
• Drives Results: Completes assigned tasks efficiently and demonstrates commitment to achieving individual and store performance objectives.
• Safety Awareness: Maintains compliance with food safety, occupational health and safety, and operational standards while promoting a culture of safety.

What We Offer:

• A Competitive Compensation and Benefit Package: Our Team Members receive competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package which includes Group Life Insurance, Short & Long-Term Disability, Extended Health and Dental, and an employer-contributed pension plan matched at 6% of salary.
• Leadership Development Opportunities: This role provides hands-on operational and leadership training designed to prepare candidates for future advancement opportunities within Heritage Co-op.
• Inclusive Work Environment: At Co-op, we embrace diversity and inclusion and are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We support an environment where all Team Members can bring their whole selves to work.
• Professional Development: We encourage Team Members to take advantage of training and learning opportunities that support professional growth and career advancement.
• Additional Offerings: Team Member Purchase Rebate Program, Team Member Volunteer Incentive Program, Home Centre Preferred Pricing, EFAP (Employee and Family Assistance Program), and a Team Member Fitness Rebate of up to $100 annually toward eligible health and wellness purchases.

About Us

Heritage Co-op 1997 Ltd. is here to serve our members and customers with products and services that help build, feed, and fuel individuals and communities. We are a different kind of business. Being member-owned means that any profits are returned to our members and remain in the local economy. We live where you live, work where you work, and help grow the economy right here.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment process to ensure an enjoyable candidate experience. Please reach out to the Human Resources team to discuss your needs if you require accommodation.

We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected to continue in the recruitment process will be contacted.