Purchasing Specialist

Purchasing SpecialistThe Purchasing Specialist is responsible for supporting the procurement of food and non-food products by managing vendor relationships, conducting product research, negotiating pricing, monitoring inventory, and coordinating purchasing activities across multiple departments. This role works closely with Sales, Warehouse, and Accounting teams to ensure product availability, cost efficiency, quality standards, and customer satisfaction while supporting the company's overall business objectives.Purchasing & Vendor ManagementAssist in developing purchasing strategies to support business objectives and operational needsResearch market trends, evaluate supplier proposals, and create purchase orders based on sales forecasts and inventory requirementsPurchase both food and non-food products while developing and maintaining strong vendor relationshipsNegotiate pricing, terms, and service agreements with suppliersCoordinate transportation logistics and delivery schedules with vendors and carriersConduct product research and identify new product opportunities based on market trends and customer demandInventory & Cost ManagementMonitor inventory levels and collaborate with Warehouse to maintain appropriate stock levelsCalculate product costs and assist in determining pricing to achieve target profit marginsMonitor supplier performance, purchasing records, and vendor contractsPrepare purchasing reports and maintain accurate records of purchase orders, invoices, and supplier agreementsProcess branch purchase orders and issue invoicesQuality Assurance & Cross-functional SupportEnsure product quality through sample testing, supplier communication, and customer feedbackCoordinate with Sales, Warehouse, and Accounting teams to resolve purchasing, shipping, and quality-related issuesSupport Sales and Marketing teams by providing product information and availabilityAssist Sales with contract opportunities, customer proposals, negotiations, marketing plans, and sales activitiesParticipate in sales and marketing promotions, including monthly promotional materialsMeetings & Administrative SupportParticipate in weekly purchasing and sales meetingsAttend company meetings and events as requiredPerform additional duties assigned by the Purchasing ManagerRespond promptly to management requests and support departmental operationsWorking Hours / Working StyleMonday – Friday9:00 AM – 6:00 PMFull-timeOn-siteExempt PositionWorking LocationElk Grove Village, ILSalary / Benefit56-60K (DOE)Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance401(k)Paid Time Off (PTO)Company HolidaysQualificationsBachelor's degree preferred (or equivalent work experience)Minimum 3 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, supply chain, or inventory managementExperience in food distribution, food importing, wholesale, or related industries preferredKnowledge of Japanese food products is highly preferredStrong negotiation, vendor management, and analytical skillsExperience with inventory management and purchasing systems (ERP experience preferred)Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially ExcelExcellent communication and interpersonal skillsAbility to collaborate effectively with Sales, Warehouse, Accounting, and external vendorsStrong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment QUICK USA Inc