POSITION SUMMARY
The Purchasing Coordinator - Ingredients is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and managing the supply of all ingredients required for production. Reporting to the VP of Procurement, this role ensures cost-effective purchasing, maintains strong supplier relationships, and secures high-quality materials that meet company standards. The coordinator will also handle forecasting, supplier performance monitoring, logistics coordination, and documentation compliance while working closely with R&D, QA, and Operations teams to support efficient and reliable production.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Ingredient Sourcing and Supplier Management
- Source and qualify suppliers for all required ingredients in collaboration with R&D and QA teams.
- Communicate company expectations regarding quality, delivery, and documentation (Kosher, Organic, Certificates of Insurance, etc.).
- Negotiate pricing, payment terms, and contracts to ensure best value and long-term partnerships.
- Monitor and evaluate supplier performance to ensure ongoing compliance with company standards.
Procurement Operations and Inventory Management
- Forecast ingredient needs for 30/60/90/180 days and ensure timely purchasing.
- Coordinate special ingredient buys for promotions.
- Review daily inventory checks and participate in physical counts at each fiscal period.
- Provide direction and support to inventory replenishment staff, including during vacation relief.
- Monitor delivery schedules and promptly follow up on any outstanding or delayed shipments
- Conducting an analysis of inventory variances discovered following physical stock counts.
Reporting and Systems Management
- Prepare and maintain procurement and forecasting reports.
- Coordinate annual RFQ processes for all relevant ingredients.
- Develop strong knowledge of the company’s accounting and inventory systems.
- Ensure accurate data entry, pricing updates, and supplier information in all systems.
Compliance and Collaboration
- Adhere to all company policies related to Food Safety, Quality, Health & Safety, and Environmental standards.
- Collaborate effectively with internal teams (R&D, QA, Operations) to meet production and quality goals.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives within the procurement function.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- 1-3 years of procurement experience, focused on ingredient sourcing (e.g., flour, oil, sugar) within the baking or food manufacturing industry.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and familiarity with inventory or ERP systems.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Professional certification in Supply Chain or Procurement (e.g., CPP, CPSM, CSCP).
- Strong understanding of commodity markets and ingredient price trends.
- Experience in supplier auditing and approval processes within food manufacturing.
- Knowledge of sustainability and ethical sourcing practices.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Negotiation & Communication: Strong ability to negotiate competitive pricing and terms while maintaining positive supplier relationships.
- Analytical Thinking: Skilled in analyzing market trends, pricing data, and supplier performance to support strategic purchasing decisions.
- Organization & Time Management: Excellent ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines efficiently.
- Attention to Detail: High accuracy in documentation, forecasting, and compliance with food safety and quality standards.
- Problem-Solving: Proactive in identifying supply chain risks and developing effective solutions.
- Collaboration: Strong team player with the ability to work cross-functionally with R&D, QA, Operations, and Finance teams.
- Adaptability: Able to work effectively in a fast-paced, changing environment with evolving business needs.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Ability to work in both office and production environments.
- Occasional walking, standing, and lifting up to 25 lbs. during inventory or inspections.
- May require occasional weekend or extended hours during inventory periods.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $55,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Life insurance
- Vision care
Work Location: In person
