Purchasing Manager

We are seeking an experienced Purchasing Manager specializing in food products and ingredients to join our team. The ideal candidate will play a crucial role in managing the procurement of raw materials and other supplies essential for our food production operations. They will have a deep understanding of the food supply chain, strong vendor relationships, and the ability to optimize purchasing strategies to ensure quality, safety, and cost-effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Develop and implement procurement strategies for food products and ingredient in alignment with the company's production and quality standards.
2. Identify and qualify suppliers of food ingredients, raw materials, negotiating contracts and pricing agreements to secure favorable terms.
3. Monitor market trends, supplier performance, and regulatory changes affecting the food industry to anticipate potential risks and opportunities.
4. Collaborate closely with production, quality assurance, and logistics teams to ensure timely availability of materials and ingredients while maintaining inventory levels within budgetary constraints.
5. Conduct supplier evaluations and audits to ensure compliance with quality, safety, and sustainability standards.
6. Analyze purchasing data and performance metrics to identify cost-saving opportunities, streamline procurement processes, and optimize inventory management.
7. Manage relationships with key stakeholders, including suppliers, distributors, and internal departments, to resolve issues and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
8. Stay informed about industry best practices, emerging trends, and innovations in food sourcing, production, and supply chain management.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Food Science, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in purchasing or procurement roles within the food industry, with a focus on food products, ingredients, and supply chain management.
• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations, quality assurance standards, and industry best practices.
• Proven track record of negotiating contracts, managing supplier relationships, and driving cost-saving initiatives.
• Excellent analytical skills and proficiency in data analysis tools and software.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and with external partners.