Product Development Associate Jobs in Paris, IL (NOW HIRING)

Rural King is America's Farm and Home Store, providing essentials to the communities we serve. With a wide array of necessities ranging from food and feed to farm and home products, Rural King serves over 150 locations across 17 states and is constantly expanding. Our annual sales exceed $2.5 Billion, and our heart beats in Mattoon, IL, home to our corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store.

One thing our customers appreciate is our unique shopping experience, complete with complimentary popcorn and coffee. It's just one way we show our appreciation for their support.

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We offer growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a people-first environment where dedicated individuals come together to serve rural communities passionately. Join us, and you'll find not just a job but a chance to grow professionally, contribute meaningfully, and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

How we reward you

401(k) plan that provides a 100% match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% of the next 2%

Healthcare plans to support your needs

Virtual doctor visits

Access to Centers of Excellence with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic's Complex Care Program

15% Associate Discount

Dave Ramsey's SmartDollar Program

Associate Assistance Program

RK Cares Associate Hardship Program

24/7 Chaplaincy Services

Company paid YMCA Family Membership

The Product Sourcing & Development Lead is responsible for developing and executing global sourcing strategies, processes, and programs that deliver high-quality, value-driven products to Rural King customers. This role manages the full product lifecycle of import items, from vendor identification and cost negotiation through delivery, while driving continuous improvement, cost optimization, and innovation across the global supply chain.

JOB DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Oversee the global sourcing footprint and manage product lifecycles for all import items.
• Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives across sourcing and product development processes.
• Track and maintain accurate pricing, profitability, and cost files for imported products.
• Develop and execute cost improvement strategies without compromising quality or brand standards.
• Facilitate product reviews, RFQs, and line reviews in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Manage the complete import ordering process, from forecasting through delivery.
• Maintain an up-to-date import product catalog and develop long-term product roadmaps.
• Ensure on-time execution of seasonal and everyday product timelines.
• Identify, establish, and manage international vendor partnerships to support business growth.
• Monitor and report on global tariffs, currency fluctuations, and other supply chain factors affecting cost of goods.
• Create and maintain product market landscapes to help identify product line opportunities
• Oversee vendor onboarding processes, including Vendor Business Agreements (VBA) and Vendor Partnership Agreements (VPA).
• Partner with sourcing vendors to identify new product and program opportunities.
• Collaborate with the Supply Chain and Compliance teams to ensure accurate HTS code maintenance within Oracle.
• Generate and analyze sourcing and financial reports to support data-driven decisions.
• Conduct recurring meetings with buying teams to review product performance, order status, and margin improvement opportunities.
• Regularly visit stores, distribution centers, and competitor locations to assess product quality, value, and market competitiveness.
• Track comparable products and pricing trends to ensure Rural King's import items remain competitively positioned.
• Lead and mentor team members in alignment with Rural King's core value principles.
• Exercise discretion, independent judgment, and professionalism in all aspects of decision-making and business conduct.

None

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in sourcing, product development, or product management, or an equivalent combination of experience and education.
• Strong understanding of retail business practices; experience in the Farm & Home channel is highly preferred.
• Proficiency in the Oracle merchandising platform and Microsoft Office Suite, with advanced skills in Microsoft Excel.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop team members effectively.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills with keen attention to detail.
• Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Regularly operate standard office equipment and software systems.
• Must be able to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
• Occasionally lift up to 15 pounds.
• Approximately 10% travel, including potential international travel.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

The pay range for this position is $59,750 - $65,000 annualized and is bonus eligible. Exact compensation is determined by factors such as relevant geographic location, education, certifications, experience, job level, shift, and organizational needs. To learn more about our benefits, review here https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:14539c15-191a-4b77-9c13-f6ccfce10094.