This position is responsible for managing the procurement process to meet the company's product inventory needs. The role involves purchasing products within the company's cost and quality standards, ensuring timely delivery, and maintaining competitive pricing in alignment with company policies. The position also requires coordination with suppliers, the sales team, and internal departments, as well as assisting with training and merchandising efforts.
Key Responsibilities:
- Review daily guides and place purchase orders (PO) with suppliers, ensuring accuracy in quantities, pricing, freight, and delivery dates.
- Negotiate pricing and quotes with suppliers as needed.
- Collaborate with finance and suppliers to meet payment terms and requirements.
- Monitor and manage inventory levels by using system-generated reports and internal department feedback, addressing stock discrepancies or over-allocations.
- Communicate daily with the sales team to maintain inventory and product availability.
- Utilize weekly reports and meetings to optimize inventory levels, product dates, and returns.
- Verify all POs for correct pricing, quantities, freight, and dates.
- Coordinate with logistics to ensure on-time product deliveries.
- Update item and vendor details in the system as necessary (pricing, freight, ship points, etc.).
- Support interdepartmental training and assist with on-the-floor merchandising.
Qualifications:
- Education: High School diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor's degree preferred.
- Experience: Minimum 3 years of purchasing experience required, with a preference for experience in foodservice distribution.
- Skills: Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook. Strong organizational and follow-through skills are essential. AS400 experience is preferred.
Decision-Making Authority:
Independent Decisions:
- Daily procurement decisions, including selecting items and quantities.
- Supplier selection and vendor product choices.
- Inventory management, including product movement and shelf-life monitoring.
- Occasional price negotiations with vendors.
Decisions Requiring Approval:
- Accounting variances, which require review and approval by the Supervisor or VP of Merchandising.
- Training session approvals from the Supervisor or VP of Merchandising.
Reporting Structure:
- Reports to: Merchandising Supervisor
