Job Description:
We deliver and market fresh produce for independent foodservice distributors in the US. We are a leader in food safety, quality control, and innovation, while remaining mindful of the produce industry’s impact on people.
We are currently seeking an experienced Produce Buyer in the Salinas Area.
As a Produce Buyer, you will have the ability to exercise a high level of commodity expertise, negotiation and problem-solving skills within the assigned commodity team. You will strive to meet the needs and expectations of customers, and to provide them with a competitive edge. You may be designated as a team leader, which requires guiding the commodity team’s goals and results.
Compensation/Salary:
DOE
Requirements:
- College degree highly desirable
- Any combination of education and/or experience that provides the needed knowledge and skills; typically, a minimum of three (3) years in a purchasing function, with experience in agriculture highly desired
- Ability to provide exceptional customer service, both internal and external
- Strong Word, database, Excel and general computer abilities, along with the ability to learn new software quickly
- Ability to respond quickly and with a high level of verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to collect data, define problems and draw valid conclusions
Responsibilities & Duties:
PRODUCT MANAGEMENT
- Acts as a source of knowledge within a purchasing team
- Gather market information, and understand and communicate market conditions and variables
- Create timely and accurate price sheets
- Create competitive bids that work for customers
- Process order bookings, order changes and adjustments
- Track customers' product volume and address shortfalls
NEGOTIATION
- Acts as a resource for designated categories; determine market pricing levels and uses to offer value
- Exhibit appropriate skills to negotiate prices, products, delivered sales, etc.
- Build strong procurement relationships through excellent service and category expertise
- Chase availability and price deals
- Seek out new products and grow designated categories through deals and promotions
TEAM LEADERSHIP
- Accept accountability for the team’s annual growth
- Guide the work of the team’s members
- Model and provide opportunities for individual and team growth, collaboration and success
- Effectively guide the work of support staff to ensure the timely completion of tasks
