University District Pantry Manager

Join our team!

We are excited to share that we are hiring for a new position, University District Pantry Manager. This role will be an important addition to our Food Access team.

Applicants are invited to review the complete job description on our website at: https://www.udistrictfoodbank.org/wp-content/uploads/Position-Description-UD-Pantry-Manager-1.pdf

Position Summary

The University District Pantry Manager is responsible for the overall smooth operation and management of our primary, four-day-per-week food distribution site in the University District. They will lead a team of Pantry Coordinators and volunteers to meet the diverse and evolving food needs of our community through a clear vision for services and responsive management of the program.

The Pantry Manager will work with the Director of Food Access to define and steward a vision for equitable community food access at our University District location. They will co-create and execute an innovative service vision that promotes dignified food access and customer choice. They will manage staffing and food procurement, ensure policies are clear and consistent, and manage key budget items.

The Pantry Manager will work collaboratively with other members of the Food Access team and the Volunteer Manager to ensure that the pantry is well supported and operates in alignment with strategic goals.

The Pantry Manager will support the needs of the team of Pantry Coordinators to ensure their success. They will balance their own administrative and direct service responsibilities with regular 1-on-1 support and coaching.

This position requires regular walking, standing, sitting, and lifting boxes 50-75lb and the ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends on occasion.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the operation of a healthy, inclusive, and safe shopping environment for staff, volunteers, and customers

• Support a safe and welcoming shopping environment
• Manage scheduling and staffing
• Oversee inventory and food flow to ensure adequate and consistent services
• Embed principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of the program

Support the development and success of our pantry team

• Coach and support pantry coordinators through weekly check-ins and regular performance feedback
• Support pantry coordinators in effectively managing volunteers
• Promote a culture of collaboration, inclusion, and accountability that empowers staff to grow in responsibility and leadership
• Identify training opportunities for staff and volunteers

Coordinate with other program leaders to share resources, maximize impact, and reduce duplicate work

• Collaborate with Food Access team members to ensure food flow, inventory needs, staffing, and community outreach are managed efficiently
• Collaborate with the Volunteer Manager in developing policies and trainings
• Align pantry data needs with other programs

Facilitate smooth and efficient operations and data flow to promote organizational success

• Attend all staff meetings, manager meetings, and other meetings and trainings as required
• Co-develop quarterly, with pantry coordinators, pantry-level OKRs in alignment with strategic plan goals
• Promote and support robust shopper participation at regular meetings of the Shopper Advisory Council
• Ensure appropriate pantry service data is accurately entered and available
• Use data to inform decisions, improve services, and communicate impact
• Assist in the development of the annual pantry budget
• Learn and lead skill development for pantry staff and volunteers to advance anti-racism, racial equity, and cultural competence

Qualifications/Knowledge Requirements

• 2+ years of progressive nonprofit management experience including supervising staff and volunteers or diverse backgrounds
• Accessible leadership style and cultural competence to build trust and support diverse teams
• Experience in trauma-informed approaches to service and de-escalation strategies
• Collaborative work style
• Ability to develop and manage program goals and work plans aligned with organizational strategies and equitable food access
• Demonstrated experience managing program budgets and scheduling
• Demonstrated people leadership skills including hiring, mentoring/coaching, and performance management
• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously with attention to detail
• Clear commitment to our organizational mission and values
• Clear written and oral communication practices
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (nonprofit management, public administration, urban studies, social work, or public health) preferred but not required
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office software, familiarity with CRM databases
• Ability to speak/read/write English plus a second language desired
• Valid food handler’s permit (or ability to get one within ten days of hire) required
• Valid WA State driver’s license (or commitment to get one within two months of hire)
• Willingness to become a Certified Food Protection Manager within six months of hire is required
• Familiarity operating electrical and mechanical pallet jacks and other key material handling equipment
• Awareness of common workplace safety practices
• Experience working in a hunger relief organization

Provided benefits include full medical, dental, and vision insurance, an employer contributed SEP IRA, an annual professional development budget, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

English required. Second language preferred.