Produce Category Manager
K-VA-T Food Stores
Abingdon, VA
Ryan Ellison began his career in the produce industry when he was just 14 and in the eighth grade. He says he “just never got away.”
Ellison never thought he would continue to work in the industry after receiving his bachelor’s degree, but a produce job opened the same week he received his degree.
He has been at his current job as produce category manager for nine years, and in the industry for 20 years. He works in the Food City support center in Abingdon, VA. He says the majority of his day is spent in procurement, but he also plans ads and connects with retail stores. Typically, he travels to stores every Wednesday and Thursday.
He says K-VA-T Food Stores, the corporate banner for the Food City supermarket chain, has about 140 stores in Kentucky, Virginia, Tennessee, and they are expanding into Georgia and Alabama.
He wishes consumers knew about the produce industry, and knew how many moving parts there are. “It’s more complicated than consumers realize. There are so many aspects of the supply chain.”
Ellison says in his free time he watches a lot of college football. His favorite team is The University of Tennessee. (Go Vols!) He also referees high school football on Friday nights.
Ellison says the thing he likes most about Produce Business is the merchandising tips. “It’s a good way to keep up with the industry as a whole. The magazine is full of good ideas.”
As this month’s winner, he will receive a $200 Amazon gift card.
WIN A $200 AMAZON GIFT CARD
Is there anyone in the industry who wouldn’t want $200 to buy almost anything on Amazon? Or better yet… pass the card on to someone in need and make the world a better place!
