Lidl is coming to America and is searching for talented, friendly and ambitious people to grow with us. One of Europe's largest grocery retailers in the world providing a totally unique shopping experience, Lidl US offers exciting career opportunities for people who love to engage and serve customers, are eager to develop their skills and want to grow their careers.
Have you got what it takes to change the way Americans shop forever? Join our team and be part of something big!
As a Purchasing Manager – Fresh Produce, Plants & Flowers you will have the authority to make impactful decisions that support the organization’s overall business strategy. In this fast paced and exciting area of our business, you will be given the responsibility to manage and develop a range of products through; detailed market analysis, managing and implementing quality control standards and procedures, contract negotiation, managing existing suppliers, sourcing new suppliers and new business/product development. You will work with a strong supply base that will enable you to deliver the highest quality products, continuous product innovation and best value for the money.
You will work directly with the Purchasing team to provide detailed knowledge and insight into the industry with specific reference to their own experience. Alongside the purchasing role, you are required to assist in training and supporting other buyers within the department with the aim of increasing the overall market and product knowledge within the organization.
- Bachelor’s degree in related field (Retail, Business, Supply-Chain, etc.)
- 3+ years of experience in retail or supply of fresh produce, plants and flowers
- Understanding of quality control, freshness, and supply issues in the market
- Demonstrated expertise in produce supplier relations, fresh food and non-food service
- In-depth knowledge of wholesale and distribution channels
- Proficient with office software programs (i.e., Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.)
- Previous experience in the retail or supply of plants and flowers a plus
- Strong commercial ability with entrepreneurial talent
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Flair for negotiating, persuading and networking
- Ability to work independently or within a group
- Passionate about all aspects of the industry
- Full ownership of a product range including developing strategy to consistently improve quality and results
- Identifying potential suppliers, visiting existing suppliers, and building and maintaining good relationships with them
- Negotiating and securing contracts to include monitoring progress and ensuring quality of products or services
- Liaising between suppliers, wholesalers, producers/growers, relevant internal departments and customers
- Identifying, testing, and recommending new products in your range
- Preparing portfolio reports and proposing cost saving initiatives for your product range
- Forecasting levels of demand to meet business needs and keeping a constant check on stock levels
- Completing market analysis of competitor products, pricing, promotions, packaging, trends, loyalty programs, marketing initiatives, and conducting research to determine the best products and suppliers in terms of value, delivery schedules and quality
