Senior Purchasing & Import Analyst

Elite Spice Inc; Jessup (MD); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Elite Spice Inc is seeking a seasoned Senior Purchasing and Import Analyst to join our procurement team in Maryland. You will lead demand forecasting, strategic sourcing and supplier performance to support production and growth.

The role emphasizes data-driven decision making, cost analysis, and collaboration with manufacturing, quality, sales and logistics to optimize supply chain efficiency and import compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; a degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years purchasing experience, ideally in food manufacturing.
• Import experience is highly advantageous.
• Strong analytical skills and data-driven mindset.

Responsibilities

• Lead demand forecasting to align with production goals.
• Develop and manage strategic sourcing for supplier selection and performance.
• Negotiate complex purchasing contracts to favorable terms.
• Oversee purchasing and import logistics, including claims handling.
• Monitor inventory levels and adjust procurement strategies to cut costs.
• Build strong relationships with vendors, brokers and internal teams.
• Provide regular management reports on purchasing metrics and savings.
• Support supply chain improvements and strategic procurement initiatives.

Skills

Procurement strategy

Vendor management

Negotiation

Data-driven decision making

Advanced Excel

ERP systems

Communication skills

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field

Tools

Microsoft 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.