Buyer - Phoenix

The Role

We are seeking an individual who possesses a genuine passion for sourcing the finest produce, cultivating mutually advantageous partnerships with growers, and actively contributing to the creation of value for both our customers and the organization. This role entails the identification and acquisition of both conventional and organic products, catering to our Retail, Wholesale, and Food Service customers. Reporting to the Regional Procurement Manager and Procurement Supervisors, this team member will collaborate with fellow buyers to achieve well managed inventories.

Essential Responsibilities Include, but Not Limited To:

• Analyze daily inventory reports to maintain appropriate inventory levels, minimize out of stock issues, address excess and/or aged inventory, and determine optimal order quantities.

• Select and buys product based on procurement programs, quality, vendor partnerships, promotional activity, and other relevant factors.

• Develop and implement strategies to maximize gross profit by coordinating sales, gross margin, inventory turns, and managing costs.

• Recommend and manage merchandise strategies for assigned categories, collaborating with sales to identify and exploit merchandising opportunities, and proposing programs & plans for supervisor approval.

• Evaluate and select vendors while negotiating product costs.

• Establish and maintain mutually beneficial vendor relationships. Identify new business opportunities aligned with short and long-term business strategies.

• Assist in vendor rebate reconciliation and resolve vendor claims related to consigned or protected products.

• Follow established best practices and processes.

• Consistently demonstrate ownership of and responsibility for items managed and one’s results.

• All employees are responsible for ensuring food safety and must promptly report any compromises to food safety or quality to the appropriate manager, supervisor, or key personnel.

Peripheral Duties:

• Projects and tasks as assigned by the Regional Procurement Manager and/or Procurement Supervisors.