Job Description:
Get Fresh Produce, Inc. specializes in servicing independent restaurants within the greater Chicago area as well as regional and national chains. From our 86,000 square foot custom built LEED designed facility, we are able to provide the freshest quality of produce, dairy and other products to our customers. We are seeking an experienced Produce Buyer to join our team in Bartlett, IL. This individual will deal with dozens of suppliers on a daily basis monitoring availability, cost and factors that affect quality. The Produce Buyer will purchase approximately 80% of all products sold and ensure that products meet customer needs, including orders that are placed for "over the road". The role of the Produce Buyer will also require experience with the software program, Produce Pro, to generate reports to assist in the purchasing process.
Position Reports to:
Director of Purchasing
Compensation/Salary:
DOE
Responsibilities & Duties:
- Keep Director of Sales, Customer Service and Operations informed of buying decisions that impact availability, quality and price.
- Maintain balance between quality, service and price when making buying decision.
- Understand customer base and end use of produce items.
- Accurate input of data into “Produce Pro” software program.
- Minimizing “short” items in inventory.
- Purchasing items that meet quality standard.
- Purchasing items that meet cost target as measured by Produce Alliance benchmark.
Skills:
- Solid interpersonal skills, able to build long term relationships with suppliers while at the same time managing conflicts.
- Excellent communication skills; keeps others informed of decisions.
- Adaptable; can meet shifting job demands.
- Thrives in fast-paced environment.
- Street smart; able to meet company objective of providing quality products, exceptional service at a competitive yet profitable price.
- Sees the big picture; understands how role impacts others and the performance of the company.
- Respectful of others, practices the “golden rule”.
- Takes pride in doing a job well.
- Is fun to work with.
Qualifications:
- High School diploma or GED
- Experience with purchasing, inventory and distribution systems.
- Expertise with technology & information systems that support buying function.
- Understanding of volatility of commodity items, ability to anticipate market direction.
