CPW Sourcing 1 (Grocery Buyer)

PURPOSE:

CPW Buyer 1 is responsible for supporting CPW’s strategic plans and goals by purchasing product from our supplier partners that meet the needs and expectations of our customers. This position is a support function that works closely with Sales, Marketing, Warehouse Operations, and our Supplier Partners. The success of the position will be measured on performance managing inventory, consistently meeting deadlines, category profitability, collaboration and communication with the sales and buying teams. Correct execution of this position will result in consistently achieving all KPI goals within assigned categories.

REPORTS TO: Director of Sales & Purchasing

OVERVIEW: This is a Full Time, 40 hour per week position based out of CPW’s offices. Typical shifts are Monday through Friday, 8am – 4pm. This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by UFCW 1189.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

· Sourcing and Procurement: Verify inventory and maintain backstock par levels of multiple categories. Manage orders based on demand and supplier lead times. Identify, evaluate, and establish relationships with suppliers to ensure a diverse and high-quality product range.

• Inventory Management: Monitor inventory levels, turnover, and product freshness to minimize waste and optimize stock levels.
• Compliance: Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, certifications, and quality standards in the industry.
• Negotiation: Negotiate favorable terms, pricing, and contracts with suppliers while maintaining strong partnerships.

· Cost Management: Implement cost-saving strategies without compromising product quality or supplier relationships. Set and maintain base prices for our weekly pricelist.

· Market Analysis: Stay abreast of industry trends, market conditions, and competitor activities to make informed purchasing decisions.

· Participate in Category and Supplier Reviews: Be an active member of the New Vendor Committee and Product Review Committee.

• Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including logistics, sales, and finance, to ensure seamless coordination throughout the supply chain.

ADDITIONAL TASKS:

• Promptly resolve all purchasing disputes and billing errors with Account Payables to maintain our on-time payments.
• Submit and manage credits within vendor timeframes to secure inventory protection.
• Weekly price adjustments on our order guide that reflect market conditions, keeps us competitive and maximizes margin performance.
• Learn, understand and follow the Food Safety Manager’s expectations and assist with maintaining regulatory compliance on all Supplier Partner documentation.
• Partner with CPW Logistics Manager for backhaul/delivery opportunities.
• Monitor inbound shipment updates and communicate any delays to warehouse operations and the sales team.
• Attend and actively participate in scheduled meetings as needed.

· Travel requirements less than 10%

o trade shows, supplier visits, conferences, customer visits, etc.

· All other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Qualifications:

· Computer literacy: Microsoft Office, ERP/WMS.

· At least 2-year proven experience as a buyer in the industry.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to make data-driven decisions.
• Solutions-oriented problem solving mindset.
• Familiarity with industry regulations and quality standards.
• Demonstrated ability to work with customers and coworkers from diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Ability to work with TCCP to create an inclusive environment where all are welcomed.

Essential Physical Abilities

· This job operates in a food cold storage environment and in an office setting. Extended periods of standing while walking the production floor and periods of time of sitting using a computer or other devices are common.

· Occasional work in a refrigerated environment, down to 34 degrees F

· Occasional lifting to 40 lbs.

Safety and Security

Observes safety and security procedures such as Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP’s), Material Safety Data (MSD) sheets, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), Lock-Out-Tag-Out (LOTO), Emergency Evacuations and Building Security; Reports potentially unsafe conditions and injuries: near miss/incidents/accidents; Uses and cares for company equipment and materials properly.

Twin Cities Co-op Partners has an ongoing commitment to the principles and practices of diversity and inclusiveness. Our employment practices are in accordance with the laws that prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, age, marital status, familial status, veteran status, citizenship, pregnancy, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, status with regard to public assistance, or any other status category by applicable law. People with a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences are encouraged to apply.