Produce Buyer

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Job description

SUMMARY / OBJECTIVE:

The Produce Buyer will purchase fresh produce in an assigned group of categories or commodities that will be sold through us. This position will function as the main point of contact for producers in their commodity group. This role is responsible for continuously identifying and determining optimum sources of produce supply.

DUTIES AND RESPONSABILITIES:

Purchase produce within assigned categories or commodities
Take into account supply agreements set up by upper Manager
Take into account Produce Field Buyer
Interpret projections from Data team to ensure adequate supply to fulfill demand in the warehouse
Work with Senior Managers on promotional and pricing strategy for your assigned categories or commodities
Set and monitor pricing to ensure that financial and departmental targets are met
Ensure that pricing is competitive and a good value to customers
Assist in cost negotiations
Build strong and collaborative relationships with producers in assigned category or commodity
Provide short-term forecasts to producer partners for upcoming needs
Create quarterly and yearly vendor contracts
Participate in supplier business reviews with owner of the company
Own PO and data accuracy
Audit gross margin data
Reconcile invoices against received purchase orders
Keep target goals by storage zone and category
Work with Operations team to minimize spoilage
Work with QA team to ensure all inbound produce meets standards for quality, condition and grade
Provide timely and thorough feedback to growers regarding product quality
Make and resolve credit requests
Maintain vendor relationships; work with vendors and Buyer to help negotiate better terms and/or costs for merchandise being purchased.
Establishes and maintains a reputation of credibility and responsiveness; promptly returns vendor and store phone calls, ensures timely follow-up on issues within 24 hours.
Other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ATTRIBUTES:
2 + years relevant work experience, either on farms or in produce retail/distribution
Experience in procurement / purchasing, preferably in the produce industry
Knowledge of local and regional produce varieties, growing practices, quality standards and seasonality
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Outstanding communication and time management skills
Knowledge of quality standards and industry certifications
Experience managing relationships with outside vendors
Understanding of margins and profitability
Proficiency in Google and MS Office suite software (i.e. spreadsheets, presentation, and word processing software)
Ability to understand and engage with new tools
Strong negotiation skills
Thrive in a fast-paced evolving environment
Able to effectively and respectfully communicate with all levels of staff and management
Strong team player
Open concept office environment.
Some job duties will be performed in a warehouse setting

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE:

Relevant Bachelor's Degree or equivalent work experience of direct involvement in warehousing and transportation.