Senior Purchasing and Import Analyst

Elite Spice Inc; Columbia (MD); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Elite Spice Inc. is seeking a seasoned Senior Purchasing and Import Analyst to lead sourcing, supplier management and supply chain improvements in Maryland. You will forecast needs, negotiate contracts, and oversee import logistics.

Ideal candidates have 4+ years in purchasing, preferably in food manufacturing, with strong Excel/ERP skills and a data-driven approach. Competitive salary range and bonus potential based on performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field is required.
• Minimum 4 years of purchasing experience in food or manufacturing.
• Experience with import logistics and supplier management is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead demand and material forecasting to align with production goals and sales projections.
• Develop and manage strategic sourcing initiatives for supplier selection, qualification, and performance assessment.
• Negotiate complex purchasing contracts, terms, and conditions to achieve favorable outcomes for the company.
• Oversee purchasing and import logistics, ensuring timely and cost‑effective transportation of goods and managing any import‑related claims.
• Monitor and analyze inventory levels, adjusting procurement strategies as needed to optimize stock levels and reduce costs.
• Design and maintain advanced cost analysis models and spreadsheets, providing insights on pricing, vendor performance, and cost‑saving opportunities.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with key vendors, brokers, and internal departments, including manufacturing, sales, quality control, and technical services.
• Provide regular reports and presentations to management on purchasing metrics, cost‑saving initiatives, and supplier performance.
• Perform additional responsibilities related to procurement strategy and supply chain improvement as assigned.

Skills

Procurement Strategy

Vendor Management

Negotiation

Data-Driven Decisions

AI in Workflows

Excel Proficiency

ERP Systems

Organizational Skills

Communication to Management

Team Collaboration

Project Management

Education

Bachelor’s degree - Supply Chain

Tools

Excel

ERP Systems

Job description

Elite Spice is looking for a seasoned Senior Purchasing and Import Analyst to join our procurement team and drive strategic sourcing and supplier management initiatives. The ideal candidate will have at least 4 years of purchasing experience, preferably within the food industry and/or a manufacturing environment. This role involves taking a leadership position in evaluating and enhancing Elite Spice's supply chain performance, driving data-informed decision-making, and fostering partnerships that support the company’s long‑term growth.

Position Responsibilities

• Lead demand and material forecasting to align with production goals and sales projections.
• Develop and manage strategic sourcing initiatives for supplier selection, qualification, and performance assessment.
• Negotiate complex purchasing contracts, terms, and conditions to achieve favorable outcomes for the company.
• Oversee purchasing and import logistics, ensuring timely and cost‑effective transportation of goods and managing any import‑related claims.
• Monitor and analyze inventory levels, adjusting procurement strategies as needed to optimize stock levels and reduce costs.
• Design and maintain advanced cost analysis models and spreadsheets, providing insights on pricing, vendor performance, and cost‑saving opportunities.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with key vendors, brokers, and internal departments, including manufacturing, sales, quality control, and technical services.
• Provide regular reports and presentations to management on purchasing metrics, cost‑saving initiatives, and supplier performance.
• Perform additional responsibilities related to procurement strategy and supply chain improvement as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities

• Proven expertise in procurement strategy, vendor management, and negotiation.
• Strong analytical skills with experience using data to drive procurement decisions.
• Knowledge and experience using AI tools for enhancing workflows and projects.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate and present effectively to senior management and across various departments.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects and prioritize effectively.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required; a degree in Supply Chain, Business, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years of purchasing experience, ideally within the food industry and/or a manufacturing environment.
• In‑depth knowledge of purchasing and logistics principles; import experience highly advantageous.

This role offers a competitive salary range of $65,000 - $85,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Additionally, there is an opportunity for an annual performance‑based bonus, contingent on company financial performance.