Job Description

Job Summary:

The Buyer is responsible for executing the day-to-day purchasing of products across assigned categories to ensure optimal inventory levels, competitive pricing, and high service levels. This role supports internal teams by maintaining a reliable supply of goods, resolving vendor and product issues, and contributing to supply chain efficiency. A successful Buyer balances cost management with service excellence and helps drive margin improvement and inventory accuracy.

Key Responsibilities:

Procurement & Vendor Management

• Monitor and maintain inventory levels to ensure product availability without overstocking.
• Issue accurate and timely purchase orders aligned with forecasted demand, sales trends, and lead times.
• Plan for seasonal fluctuations, customer promotions, and business shifts by adjusting procurement strategies.
• Maintain accurate data in purchasing systems, including pricing, vendor information, and product specifications.

Vendor Relations

• Develop and maintain effective relationships with suppliers and brokers to support quality, service, and cost objectives.
• Communicate regularly with vendors to confirm pricing, availability, and delivery schedules.
• Resolve issues related to product shortages, quality concerns, delivery delays, or invoice discrepancies.
• Participate in vendor performance reviews and assist with sourcing decisions.

Operational Collaboration

• Collaborate with the sales team to support product availability and customer satisfaction.
• Work closely with operations and warehouse teams to ensure accurate order fulfillment and receiving processes.
• Coordinate with accounting to reconcile purchase orders, invoices, and vendor credits.
• Manage returns, unsaleable goods, and supplier inventory programs.

Strategic Sourcing

• Identify and evaluate alternative suppliers or substitute products to address inventory challenges.
• Make smart purchasing decisions to minimize spoilage, obsolete inventory, and unnecessary costs.
• Support the introduction of new products and monitor their performance post-launch.
• Assist in cost savings initiatives and continuous improvement projects.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED required. Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Food Science or related field preferred or equivalent experience.
• 1-3 years of experience in purchasing or procurement, ideally in foodservice distribution.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and multitasking abilities in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
• Effective communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• High attention to detail, accuracy, and follow-through.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, ERP systems, and inventory management software.

Core Competencies:

• Inventory & Forecasting Acumen : Accurately anticipates product needs and adjusts buying strategies to align with business trends, seasonality, and customer demands.
• Vendor Management : Builds and maintains effective partnerships with vendors. Holds suppliers accountable for quality, pricing, and on-time delivery.
• Analytical Thinking : Uses data to inform decisions, optimize inventory levels, and control costs. Understands how small changes impact gross margins and service levels.
• Communication & Collaboration : Communicates clearly with internal and external stakeholders. Works effectively across departments to resolve issues and ensure supply chain continuity.
• Adaptability & Problem Solving: Responds quickly to unexpected challenges, such as stockouts or product delays, and develops practical solutions with minimal disruption.
• Results Orientation: Focused on achieving procurement goals such as service level targets, cost savings, and inventory accuracy while supporting business growth.
• Detail Orientation: Maintains accurate records, pricing, and data integrity across all purchasing transactions. Catches discrepancies early to prevent downstream issues.
• Customer Focus: Keeps the end customer in mind when making purchasing decisions. Supports sales and customer satisfaction through reliable product availability.

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