Buyer Jr

Job Description Purpose of Role: It is critical that this Jr. Buyer have a proactive approach to long term and contingency planning – addressing day-to-day operating issues as well as providing strategic input to demand and commercial planning. Key areas of focus will encompass several areas of supply chain: supplier performance management, multi-level bills of materials, planning and forecasting, product specifications, data analysis, cost analysis, master data management, capacity planning & the ability to drive, measure and manage year over year cost productivity, continuous improvement initiatives and other key metrics. Role Requirements Maintain ingredient supply plan by calculating multi-level bills of material from provided finished goods forecasts and product formulas. Regularly update and communicate these forecasts through monthly distribution to all key suppliers. Team long range supplier planning sessions annually. Help to resolve short term supply issues through supplier collaboration and effective communication, alternate sourcing and utilizing contingencies and propose long term changes to ensure a consistent product supply Source and qualify ingredients for returning products in coordination with R&D chefs, commercial team, and food safety and quality staff. Be able to assist, as needed with negotiating pricing and delivery with suppliers. Communicate the negotiated purchasing information for specialty ingredients to product manufacturers. Understand produce planting cycles, communicate requirements to growers, grower representatives and produce processors to ensure adequate supply of fresh items from annual harvests. Understand market conditions related to specialty ingredients and contract requirements for items such as fruit, nuts, seasonal Veg. etc. Calculate requirements and arrange contracts with suppliers and Director of Procurement. Create and manage purchase orders and coordinate finished good pick-ups with suppliers, transportation, and scheduling teams. Develop, execute, and validate cost savings and other purchasing projects. Participate in weekly meetings to understand production schedules, new products, open orders, and supply issues and work quickly to resolve any issues. Work within multiple product categories to ensure complete supply chain loop. Adhere to product replenishment and inventory control processes. Ability to work flex scheduling as applied to business needs (nights, weekends, holidays). Job Responsibilities Product replenishment of assigned categories. Inventory control and improvement. Negotiate pricing, transportation and payment terms with vendors. Provide ordering and troubleshooting of orders. Create strategies to improve categories. Monitor inventory levels and resolve discrepancies. Using ERP application compile data and reporting. Contact vendors in order to schedule or expedite deliveries and to resolve shortages, missed or late deliveries, and other problems. Source new items through various research channels. Order samples and follow up with the R&D Department to determine usability. Authorize payment of invoices or return of merchandise. Confer with other departments regarding upcoming projects and possible pitfalls. Conduct and participate in vendor meetings and business reviews. Prepare and distribute vendor communication. Partner with Accounting Department to resolve discrepancies. Represent the department in the absence of the Manager. Respond to questions from other departments in a timely and thorough fashion Additional duties as required Work Experience and Qualifications Expected 1-3 years purchasing or comparable supply or demand planning experience. Experience in the food industry preferably in production, planning or purchasing. Highly proficient in spreadsheets and data tools (Excel, Google Sheets) Thorough understanding of supply planning parameters (LT, MOQ, safety stock, BOMs, etc.). Proven ability to work independently as well as collaboratively. A roll-up the sleeves, can-do attitude. Highly adaptable, high sense of urgency and resourceful. Quick study. Must be able to manage and communicate complex timelines and meet deadlines. Highly organized and excellent verbal and written communication skills. Data driven negotiator. Able to manage multiple priorities. Preferred experience writing and managing Request for Quotes (RFQ) and/or Proposals (RFP). Experience evaluating and managing commodities. Experience with food products, flavors and spices is a must. Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent food industry/CPG experience. Have prior success working in a professional business environment, purchasing or material planning experience preferred Manage own time and organize workload with minimal supervision Demonstrate above-average computer skills particularly spreadsheet, database and internet research skills Have experience with ERP applications is a plus Possess intermediate math skills including algebra and statistics Exercise sound judgment and demonstrate advanced problem-solving ability Communicate clearly and effectively with emphasis on phone and e-mail skills Be punctual and conscientious with regard to all company policies and procedures #J-18808-Ljbffr REX STAFFING