Associate Buyer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision

Disability & Life Insurance

401K with match

Paid vacation

Employee lunches & events

Development opportunities

Job summary

New Horizons Baking Company in Norwalk, OH is hiring an Associate Buyer to support procurement of raw materials, ingredients, and packaging for our Columbus-area production line. You will work with suppliers and internal teams to ensure inventory availability, negotiate terms, and optimize costs.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's in Business or Supply Chain, 1–3 years buying experience in manufacturing, strong Excel and ERP knowledge, and thrives in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• 1–3 years of purchasing experience in a manufacturing environment.
• 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.

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 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.
• 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 to understand material needs and ensure alignment with procurement strategies.

Skills

Negotiation

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Fast-paced environment

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business/Supply Chain

Tools

Excel

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!

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.

New Horizons Baking Company is part of the NHB Family, a leader in serving the food industry with cutting-edge R&D, quality products, and dependable logistics.

Baker for many of North America’s most
iconic brands.

Innovative seasoning blends, foods, flavors, ingredients and packaging.

The responsibilities that come with producing ready-to-eat products include high and uncompromising standards. You can rely on New Horizons to always meet those standards and to be your trusted baking partner.