Employment

We're hiring!

Sales & Product Development Specialist

Job Opportunity

We are looking for a fun and hard-working individual to join our team! We are an award-winning organic family farm located in Lake Chelan, WA growing specialty organic produce since 1991.

Our team at Chelan Ranch is made up of 3 companies. The farm (Diamondback Acres) grows specialty varieties of certified organic apples, cherries, and blueberries. The packing and shipping company (Glacier Fed Organics) sells these premium commodities to local businesses here in the valley as well as high-end co-ops in Seattle, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. The retail side of our farm (Chelan Ranch Organics) is selling and shipping fruit directly to the doorsteps of our customers via our website, www.chelanranch.com. Chelan Ranch has a beautiful events venue and cozy “farm stays” tucked away in the orchard. All arms of this business are expanding rapidly and we are seeking someone smart and ambitious to help us with these expansion endeavors.

Position Overview

The Sales & Product Development Specialist will partner with our company's upper management to supervise on-site store operations, aiming to boost local and online sales of our premium, organic freeze-dried and Fresh Fruit products. This role is an integral part of the sales team at Chelan Ranch, and its success is predicated on consistent customer engagement, innovative sales techniques, procurement and product development, expanding customer base and brand exposure, as well as implementing effective business development strategies backed by thorough data and analytical research.

Responsibilities

  • Evaluate and develop opportunities to enhance customer lifetime value, engagement, and loyalty.
  • Manage retail sales operations, including overseeing the hiring process for the retail store and ensuring exceptional customer service standards.
  • Curate and introduce new products for retail, evaluating market trends and customer preferences.
  • Partner with the wholesale manager and drive wholesale growth by identifying and engaging with potential clients, maintaining strong relationships, and expanding our customer base.
  • During the peak harvest period, provide support to the Wholesale Manager on the packing lines as required.
  • Collaborate with various teams to effectively manage inventory across multiple platforms, ensuring optimal stock levels and minimizing waste.
  • Explore and implement strategies to diversify sales avenues, such as online platforms, local markets, and partnerships.
  • Contribute to budget planning and monitor expenses to ensure financial targets are met.
  • Analyze sales data and market insights to identify opportunities for improvement and strategic growth.
  • Foster a positive and collaborative work environment, supporting team members and promoting a culture of excellence.
  • Research current subscription customers to derive insights and hypotheses.
  • Lead the testing and development of new products, utilizing A/B tests and analyzing post-launch metrics and customer feedback.
  • Act as a subject matter expert for product labeling and design requirements, liaising with packaging manufacturers.
  • Develop labor and inventory forecasts, and design plans accordingly to meet goals.
  • Drive efficiencies and cost reductions for new product development, including sourcing manufacturers and co-packers.
  • Lead strategic analysis and transportation planning for product delivery to retail partners, co-packers, and direct customers.
  • Manage budgets, schedules, staffing plans, and performance requirements.
  • Establish strategic partnerships with co-packers, restaurants, brewers, etc., to ensure product utilization and resale.
  • Coordinate with support teams to develop plans aligned with business objectives.

Requirements

  • Preferential consideration to bilingual candidates, but not required.
  • Follow strategic plans for all transportation, logistics, and distribution activities.
  • Possess a robust sales aptitude and a talent for discovering fresh avenues to promote products.
  • Assist in managing systems associated with transportation, storage, sorting, and delivery of perishable and raw foods.
  • High attention to detail
  • Must be able to stand/walk for up to 8 hours per day and lift/carry boxes up to 40 lbs.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours, including early mornings, occasional weekends, and non-stop days during the summer season.
  • Proficient computer skills, including familiarity with applications and technology.
  • While a college degree is not required, a demonstrated track record of academic or post-secondary excellence is preferred.
  • Prior business experience, particularly with tools like QuickBooks and Excel, is advantageous.
  • Excellent communication skills (Written, verbal, email, etc.)
  • Experience in project management and leadership roles.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Sales, Marketing, or related field (preferred).
  • Proven experience in sales management, preferably in the retail or agricultural industry.
  • Strong understanding of inventory management principles and best practices.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
  • Strategic thinker with a results-oriented mindset, capable of identifying and capitalizing on market opportunities.
  • Proficiency in Google Suite and experience with inventory management software (e.g., Shopify, Square, Datatech, Excel, Google Sheets, and apps similar to Fishbowl Inventory).
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing priorities.
  • Passion for organic farming and sustainable agriculture is a plus.

Learning opportunities include: sales, retail, wholesale, inventory management, product development, sourcing 

Compensation & Benefits

Full-Time, $24-28 per hour DOE, Paid Time off for Sick Leave and Family & Medical Leave, Workers’ Compensation Insurance, and Paid Vacation (2 weeks/yr)

Compensation is based on demonstrated full knowledge and capability of the outlined position responsibilities. Raised wages are directly related to the success of the companies during these expansion endeavors.

If you are a driven and enthusiastic individual seeking an opportunity to contribute to the growth of a thriving organic farm, Chelan Ranch welcomes you! Join our team and be part of an exciting journey towards sustainable agriculture and community empowerment.

To apply, please submit your resume to support@chelanranch.com and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are passionate about joining Chelan Ranch.