Purchasing manager

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Purchasing Manager to lead our procurement operations and supply chain strategy. This senior leadership role is responsible for sourcing raw materials and packaging, managing supplier relationships, optimizing costs, ensuring supply chain reliability, and driving operational efficiency across our food manufacturing organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive purchasing strategies aligned with business objectives
• Forecast material requirements based on production schedules and demand planning
• Identify cost reduction opportunities and negotiate favorable contract terms
• Evaluate market trends and supplier capabilities to optimize sourcing decisions
• Establish procurement policies and procedures compliant with company standards

• Identify, evaluate, and qualify new suppliers for raw materials and packaging
• Conduct supplier audits and assessments (quality, food safety, compliance, financial stability)
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and payment terms with suppliers
• Maintain strong supplier relationships and manage performance metrics
• Address supplier issues and implement corrective actions when needed
• Manage supplier diversity programs and minority/local vendor initiatives

• Analyze spend data and identify cost reduction initiatives without compromising quality
• Implement strategic sourcing programs and competitive bidding processes
• Monitor commodity prices and market fluctuations
• Implement inventory management strategies to minimize waste and carrying costs
• Track and report on procurement KPIs and budget performance
• Develop and manage purchasing department budget

• Ensure all suppliers meet food safety standards (FSMA, HACCP, allergen management)
• Verify supplier certifications and regulatory compliance (FDA, organic, kosher, etc.)
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance to establish material specifications
• Implement supplier scorecards and performance monitoring systems
• Manage supplier documentation and traceability requirements
• Support product traceability and recall procedures

• Coordinate with production planning and inventory management teams
• Optimize order timing and lot sizing to balance supply and demand
• Manage lead times and ensure on-time delivery of materials
• Handle expediting and problem-solving for supply chain disruptions
• Implement inventory control systems and reduction initiatives
• Develop contingency plans for supply chain risks

• Lead, mentor, and develop purchasing and procurement team members
• Establish performance expectations and conduct evaluations
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and professional development
• Recruit and onboard qualified personnel
• Provide training on procurement systems, policies, and best practices

• Conduct negotiations for pricing, terms, and service levels
• Manage contract renewals and modifications
• Resolve disputes and supplier performance issues
• Communicate effectively with suppliers and internal stakeholders
• Build collaborative partnerships with strategic suppliers

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Finance, or related field
• Experience:
• Minimum 7-10 years in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain roles
• Minimum 3-5 years in a supervisory or management position
• Proven experience in food manufacturing or food industry procurement
• Demonstrated supplier management and negotiation experience
• Technical Expertise:
• Advanced proficiency with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems
• Strong knowledge of procurement best practices and food supply chain
• Understanding of food safety regulations and supplier compliance requirements
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and analytical tools
• Experience with spend analysis and cost modeling
• Soft Skills:
• Strong leadership and team management abilities
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills
• Strategic thinking and analytical capabilities
• Problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
• Integrity and ethical standards in vendor relationships

• MBA or Master’s degree in Supply Chain Management or Business Administration
• Experience with supplier relationship management (SRM) software
• Familiarity with contract management systems
• Knowledge of food safety audits
• Experience with sustainability and ethical sourcing initiatives
• Exposure to Six Sigma or lean procurement methodologies
• International sourcing or global supply chain experience
• Experience with food packaging and regulatory requirements

• Strategic planning and execution
• Supplier relationship management
• Negotiation and persuasion
• Leadership and team development
• Financial acumen and cost management
• Data analysis and business intelligence
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Communication and stakeholder management
• Risk management and mitigation
• Adaptability and change management
• Ethical decision-making and integrity

• Ability to travel to supplier facilities and manufacturing plants (estimated 10-15%)
• Ability to review and inspect materials and packaging
• Comfortable working in manufacturing facility environments
• Ability to work standard office hours with occasional overtime during critical periods

• Primary work location: Office environment with regular facility visits
• Possible exposure to manufacturing environments and materials
• Standard full-time hours; may require flexibility during peak seasons or supply disruptions
• Travel to supplier sites, industry conferences, and trade shows (estimated 10-15% annually)
• On-call availability for urgent supply chain issues or emergencies
• Potential for remote work opportunities depending on company policy

• Competitive annual salary commensurate with experience
• Professional development and certification support
• Performance bonus opportunities tied to cost savings and KPIs
• Leadership development programs
• Employee discounts on company products