Head of Local Food Purchasing & Supplier Partnerships

Lancaster Farm Fresh Cooperative; Rohrerstown (PA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Lancaster Farm Fresh Co-op is seeking a Purchasing Manager to direct all procurement programs and lead a team of 7+. You will manage supplier contracts, farm partnerships, and inventory across Wholesale and CSA channels, reporting to the Business Development Manager.

You will oversee crop planning, forecasts, and adherence to organic growing standards while maintaining strong vendor relationships and cost controls.

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years of experience in a procurement, supply chain, or purchasing management role.
• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, logistics, business administration, or related field.
• Proven ability to manage product categories while balancing quality, service, risk, and cost.
• Ability to run a procurement program in strict adherence to LFFC standards and guidelines.
• Enthusiasm for and commitment to working with farmers in the local organic food movement.
• Ability to build trusted partnerships with farmers, suppliers, customers, and internal colleagues.
• Ability to monitor budgets, profitability, and margins.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Outstanding time management, organizational efficiency, and follow-up skills.
• High proficiency with Microsoft Office suite.

Responsibilities

• Direct and mentor a purchasing team of 7+ personnel, fostering a collaborative, high-performing environment.
• Oversee the purchasing budget through spend analysis and cost management.
• Maintain inventory control and support Wholesale, CSA, and other departments.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director to purchase local and regional farm products.
• Lead crop planning and product forecasting with local farms.
• Ensure all farms and vendors comply with growing practices and food safety standards.
• Monitor regional growing conditions and market trends to secure high-quality, sustainable supply.
• Negotiate with vendors to achieve favorable terms and performance.
• Maintain procurement records including purchases, costs, planning targets, and inventory.
• Minimal regional travel, about 4 times a year.

Skills

Procurement experience

Communication skills

Time management

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in supply chain management or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Lancaster Farm Fresh Co-op is seeking a Purchasing Manager to direct all procurement programs and lead a team of 7+. You will manage supplier contracts, farm partnerships, and inventory across Wholesale and CSA channels, reporting to the Business Development Manager.

You will oversee crop planning, forecasts, and adherence to organic growing standards while maintaining strong vendor relationships and cost controls.