Central Kitchen Buyer

This position is responsible for the procurement of raw ingredients, packaging and general supplies for the Central Kitchen. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Achieves the lowest cost of goods by negotiating with distributors/suppliers; develops and maintains supplier relationships
• Manages strategic contracts with an emphasis on quality, consistency and continual improvement while optimizing cost performance
• Works with the Quality Assurance Manager and Prepared Foods Manager to maintain strict quality controls/specs on ingredients, conducts ongoing ingredient cuttings and researches/sources out new ingredients when needed for recipe development
• Utilizes computer programs to generate historical data and production needs, maintains pricing and supplier bids, generates purchase orders and material receiving forms in accordance with policies and procedures
• Manages procurement and receiving of several hundred products from multiple suppliers/distributors
• Completes long range forecasts, projects daily/weekly production needs, compiles and evaluates data, and prepares clear and accurate reports
• Conducts daily and monthly inventories in all areas of the plant, including the refrigerated processing rooms, hot zone, coolers, freezers and dry storerooms
• Assists with office duties as needed, including, but not limited to filing paperwork, answering telephones, production planning and Eatec related duties
• Assists in receiving, shipping and production during peak periods or staffing shortages
REQUIREMENTS
• Associate Degree preferred, but not required
• Minimum 2 years procurement experience or a strong food service background
• Knowledge of food and proper food handling
• Detail oriented
• Computer proficiency and knowledge of Excel, Word and Outlook
• Results oriented and self-motivated with the capacity to work independently in a fast-paced environment
• Possesses strong negotiation skills, organizational skills, analytical ability, verbal and written communication skills, and problem solving skills
• Ability to multi-task and meet deadlines; possesses a strong sense of urgency
• Ability to work in varied temperatures ranging from (-)10 – 100+ degrees