Associate Buyer

New Horizons Baking Company; Norwalk (OH); On-site; USD 50,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Disability Insurance

401K with match

Paid vacation

Job summary

New Horizons Baking Company is seeking an Associate Buyer to support procurement of raw materials and packaging for our Norwalk, OH facility. You will coordinate sourcing, negotiate with suppliers, and maintain inventory to sustain manufacturing operations.

The role emphasizes strong supplier management, cost-saving initiatives, and collaboration with production, quality, and logistics teams to ensure on-time material availability and optimal stock levels.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or related field preferred.
• 1–3 years purchasing experience in manufacturing preferred.
• Proven procurement, purchasing, or supply chain experience.
• Strong negotiation skills and ability to build relationships with suppliers.
• Excel proficiency and strong analytical/problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Source, negotiate, and procure raw materials, ingredients, and packaging in line with production schedules.
• Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers for timely delivery of quality materials.
• Evaluate supplier performance and conduct regular reviews.
• Monitor inventory levels and maintain accurate stock records.
• Implement inventory controls to optimize stock and reduce waste.
• Collaborate with production and warehouse teams for seamless material flow.
• Analyze data to project lead times and assist in mitigating supply risks.
• Work with Procurement Manager on strategies for supply continuity.
• Negotiate favorable terms, pricing, and payment terms with suppliers.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and drive procurement efficiency.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to align material needs with strategies.
• Communicate with suppliers and internal stakeholders to manage issues.
• Occasional travel.

Skills

Negotiation

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Excel skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business or Supply Chain

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

ERP systems

Procurement software

Job description

About New Horizons

New Horizons has a proud legacy in food production, supporting some of the most iconic brands. Since 1967, New Horizons Baking Company has been a trusted supplier of ready-to-eat hamburger buns and English muffins, serving over 2,000 quick-service restaurants across the Midwest and national retail and sandwich makers. Our new Columbus, Ohio facility, with a cutting-edge production line capable of producing over 8,000 hamburger buns per hour, is set to open in early 2025.

Our sister company, New Horizons Food Solutions, specializes in creating custom culinary products like seasonings, flavors, functional blends, and coatings for both savory and sweet applications. We also excel in crafting high-quality soups, sauces, spice blends, and nutritional fortifications. With advanced kettle cook operations and packaging solutions, we ensure that freshness and quality are top priorities.

We cultivate and embrace a diverse team member population. We recognize that people with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives fuel our growth and enrich our culture.

We are looking for individuals who enjoy working in a fast-paced, team orientated environment, likes to be challenged, and values the opportunity to make a difference!

Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $50,000-$55,000 (BOE)

Location: On‑Site Norwalk, OH (Potential hybrid options available after 90 days)

We offer a comprehensive benefits package including Medical, company paid Dental and Vision, Disability and Life Insurance, 401K with match, and paid Vacation. Additional benefits include:

• Employee appreciation lunches and events
• Opportunities for development and job advancement

Position Overview

The Associate Buyer supports the procurement and supply chain function by coordinating the sourcing and purchasing of raw materials, ingredients, packaging, and other materials necessary to support manufacturing operations. This role works closely with suppliers and internal teams to maintain appropriate inventory levels, ensure timely material availability, manage supplier performance, and support cost-effective purchasing strategies.

Key Responsibilities

• Source, negotiate, and procure raw materials, ingredients, and packaging materials in alignment with production schedules.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure the timely delivery of high-quality materials.
• Evaluate supplier performance and conduct regular supplier reviews.
• Monitor inventory levels and maintain accurate records of stock on hand.
• Implement inventory control measures to optimize stock levels and minimize waste.
• Collaborate with production and warehouse teams to ensure a seamless flow of materials.
• Analyze historical data and market trends to project lead times accurately.
• Work closely with the Procurement Manager to develop strategies for mitigating lead-time risks and ensuring continuity of supply.
• Negotiate favorable terms, pricing, and payment terms with suppliers.
• Identify cost‑saving opportunities and implement strategies to achieve procurement efficiency.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including production, quality control, and logistics, to understand their material needs and ensure alignment with procurement strategies.
• Communicate effectively with suppliers and internal stakeholders to address issues and proactively manage potential challenges.
• Occasional travel.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field preferred.
• One to three years of purchasing experience within a manufacturing environment preferred.
• Proven experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain management.
• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships with suppliers.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, with advanced skills in Excel.
• Knowledge of ERP systems and procurement software is a plus.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment.

The above statements are intended to describe the general natureand level, or work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities as needed and as assigned by supervision.

New Horizons is committed to providing equal opportunity for employees and applicants in all aspects of the employment relationship, without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, marital status, veteran status, disability, age, religion or any other classification protected by law.