Pantry Coordinator

At Memorial Hermann, we pursue a common goal of delivering high quality, efficient care while creating exceptional experiences for every member of our community. When we say every member of our community, that includes our employees. We know that when our employees feel cared for, heard and valued, they are inspired to create moments that exceed expectations, while prioritizing safety, compassion, personalization and efficiency. If you want to advance your career and contribute to our vision of creating healthier communities, now and for generations to come, we want you to be a part of our team.

Job Summary

The Nutrition & Food Pantry Coordinator is responsible for coordinating day-to-day operations of the Memorial Hermann Food as Health Program which is part of the healthcare system’s Community Benefit Corporation. The Food as Health program scope includes Food Pharmacy, multiple food pantries and provides food support at local Farmer’s Markets in partnership with nonprofit organizations focused on addressing food insecurity in Greater Houston. Responsibilities include general program operations such as client relations, outcomes tracking, data entry, and inventory management. This position requires frequent contact with clients and patients, wholesale food distributors, the Community Resource Center staff and the general public. Position is responsible for maintaining a close working relationship with internal staff as well as community-based and private sector organizations to coordinate food and nutrition efforts. This position typically reports to Food as Health Program Manager.

Job Description

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Bachelor’s degree in food service management, supply chain and logistics, or related field preferred. 

Licenses/Certifications:

• Food Handler (FH) Certification from an accredited food handler training course approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services (TXDSHS) or by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) required. 
• Food Services Manager (FSM) certification from an accredited food service manager course approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services (TXDSHS) or by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) preferred.

Experience / Knowledge / Skills:

• Minimum of two (2) year's experience in planning/purchasing position, preferably in a healthcare or distribution center environment.
• Inventory management experience, preferably using an automated system.
• Knowledge of Demand Planning processes to be used for inventory management.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and adapt to changes in workload and work schedule.
• Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills appropriate for all levels of management, advanced computer skills, and high level of interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of storage practices and food safety standards.
• Strong organization and time management skills.
• Bilingual preferred.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Manages all product inventories necessary for executing Memorial Hermann’s Food as Health programs.
• Works with food inventory suppliers to develop and maintain relationships vital to resolving product purchasing or inventory shortage issues.
• Develops proactive awareness of potential future supply constraints and makes appropriate adjustments to inventory. 
• Generates purchase order recommendations for replenishment, considering purchase schedules, order minimums; works closely with food distributors to monitor status of expected inbound products.
• Develops and cultivates relationships with new food suppliers and local food inventory entities.
• Adheres to all local, state, and/or federal health regulations including food preparation and sanitation standards.
• Orders and receives food, validates invoices, records inventory of food, and reports data.
• Maintains a safe and clean environment for all visitors and employees of Memorial Hermann.
• Assists Patient Navigator, Dietitians, and/or Community Health Workers with patient flow and enrollment related to the Food Pharmacy program, nutrition literacy, and identification of other resources for the food insecure.
• Coordinates with Food Pharmacy staff for creation and maintenance of Food Pharmacy policies and procedures.
• Coordinates with staff within the Community Benefit Corporations Community Resource Centers to support food pantry needs related to inventory for clients and patients.
• Attends and participates in regular meetings, forums, and events of stakeholders as required.
• Ensures safe care to patients, staff and visitors; adheres to all Memorial Hermann policies, procedures, and standards within budgetary specifications including time management, supply management, productivity and quality of service.
• Promotes individual professional growth and development by meeting requirements for mandatory/continuing education and skills competency; supports department-based goals which contribute to the success of the organization; serves as preceptor, mentor and resource to less experienced staff.
• Demonstrates commitment to caring for every member of our community by creating compassionate and personalized experiences. Models Memorial Hermann’s service standards of providing safe, caring, personalized and efficient experiences to patients and our workforce.
• Other duties as assigned.