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 Specialist - Fresh Produce you will have 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 assist a Purchasing team to develop a range of products through; detailed market analysis, managing and implementing quality control standards and procedures, 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.
The Purchasing Specialist - Fresh Produce 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, they will be required to assist in training and supporting other department with the aim of increasing the overall market and product knowledge within the organization.
- Bachelor’s degree in Retail, Business or related field
- 2-3 years of relevant experience in Retail, Fresh Produce or related field is required.
- Understanding of quality control, freshness, and supply issues in the market
- Proficient with office software programs (i.e., Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.)
- Fluent speaking/writing in German a plus
- In-depth knowledge of wholesale and distribution channels
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- 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
- Ability to make important decisions and cope with the pressure of demanding markets and tight deadlines
- Ability to adapt to different client needs and to develop and maintain successful working relationships
