Job Description: Purchasing Specialist

Miceli Dairy Products Company is a leader in the food manufacturing industry, specializing in high-quality Italian cheeses. As a family-owned business, we are committed to delivering fresh, all-natural products that reflect our rich heritage and dedication to excellence.

Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented Purchasing Specialist to manage procurement, source suppliers, and maintain vendor relationships. This role supports a seamless supply chain, cost optimization, and efficient operations while upholding our commitment to high-quality dairy products.

Join a dynamic team and contribute to our company's success in a competitive market. We offer competitive compensation, health benefits, and a supportive work environment that encourages learning and professional growth.

Role Objectives

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand their requirements and align purchasing activities with organizational goals.
• Manage supplier relationships through ongoing performance evaluations, issue resolution, and long-term partnership development.
• Monitor inventory levels, analyze demand patterns, and implement inventory management strategies to prevent shortages and excess stock.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement systems and tools to streamline purchasing processes and improve efficiency.

• Source and negotiate with potential suppliers, assess their capabilities, and evaluate their suitability based on predefined criteria.

• Manage supplier relationships, including regular communication, performance evaluations, and issue resolution.

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand their requirements and develop purchasing plans accordingly.

• Analyze inventory levels, demand forecasts, and consumption patterns to optimize stock levels and reduce carrying costs.

• Continuously evaluate and improve purchasing practices, identifying cost-saving opportunities and process enhancements.

• Prepare and present reports on purchasing activities, performance metrics, and cost savings to senior management.

• Develop and maintain metrics to track performance, identify areas for improvement, and report on sourcing effectiveness.

• Implement sustainable and socially responsible strategic sourcing practices, including supporting local suppliers and promoting ethical sourcing.

• Stay updated on regulatory requirements and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations related to sourcing activities.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, business administration, or a related field.

• 5+ years of experience as a purchasing manager within the market.

• In-depth knowledge of procurement principles, strategies, and best practices.

• Demonstrated experience in the market and familiarity with local suppliers and sourcing channels.

• Experience in implementing sustainable and socially responsible procurement practices.

• Strong skills in budgeting, cost optimization, and negotiation techniques.

• Knowledge of vendor management and inventory management systems.

• Strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.

• Knowledge of local and national laws and regulations related to procurement.

• Willingness to work in a fast-paced and competitive environment.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Master’s degree in supply chain management, business administration, or a related field.

• Knowledge of industry-specific regulations and compliance requirements.

• Relevant certification in procurement or supply chain management.

• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools.

• Ability to lead and mentor a team of procurement professionals.

• Attention to detail and strong organizational and time management skills.

• Experience with sourcing, logistics, and supply chain best practices.

Operational Duties

1. Daily Count Sheet1. Maintain daily inventory counts using the Daily Count Sheet.1. Order items based on current inventory to replenish stock to established par levels.

2. Ricotta Tracker

3. 1. Count items on the Ricotta Tracker every Tuesday or Wednesday.1. Compare inventory counts with current sales to determine quantities needed to fulfill sales requirements.

4. Fulfillment Replenishment Buying

5. 2. Order boxes, films, plastics, and ingredients based on one week's production needs.

6. Inventory Management

7. 3. Use the BOM Calculator to maintain perpetual inventory records based on end-of-month inventory counts, purchases, and estimated daily usage.1. Maintain an estimated inventory balance to provide visibility for purchasing and production.1. Perform spot checks and cycle counts on critical items to verify inventory accuracy.

8. Receiving and Invoicing

9. 4. Update the Packaging File with each new receipt and invoice.

   1. Ensure invoices are paid on time.1. Record each new purchase and ensure inventory records reflect production usage.1. Review inventory records closely to confirm accuracy.

10. Purchase Order Status

11. 6. Maintain accurate purchase order pricing and delivery dates, and obtain order confirmations.1. Follow up on late orders and resolve order-related issues.1. Follow up with customer service representatives and coordinate rush shipments as needed.

12. Supplier Scorecard

13. 7. Maintain a supplier scorecard documenting price changes, late deliveries, and other supplier performance issues.