Strategic Food Procurement Buyer

Performance Foodservice; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Performance Foodservice in Cincinnati seeks an experienced Food Purchasing Specialist to coordinate supplier selection, negotiate price and terms, and establish long-term contracts to ensure a steady, high-quality supply of dry grocery items.

The role involves forecasting, planning, placing purchase orders, monitoring pricing, and working strategically with vendors to maintain inventory and service levels, while collaborating with the sales team to address customer needs.

Qualifications

• 2+ years in food purchasing/procurement; experience with a food distributor is preferred.
• Customer-focused; gather feedback from the sales team to guide decisions.
• Experience purchasing dry grocery items (food, canned goods, pantry items, spices, dry pastas, rice, imported items).
• Forecasting, planning, placing purchase orders, monitoring pricing, working with vendors, maintaining inventory and service levels.

Responsibilities

• Select vendors based on continuous supply, service level, and market understanding.
• Maintain vendor relationships by resolving invoicing/product/delivery issues.
• Select products based on market fit, performance, and value.
• Negotiate prices and quantities based on customer orders and market conditions.
• Negotiate long-term contracts for continuous supply.
• Support distribution centers during emergencies with timely product delivery.
• Provide pricing and product information to sales for pricing decisions.

Education

High School Diploma/GED or Equivalent Experience

Job description

Performance Foodservice in Cincinnati seeks an experienced Food Purchasing Specialist to coordinate supplier selection, negotiate price and terms, and establish long-term contracts to ensure a steady, high-quality supply of dry grocery items.

The role involves forecasting, planning, placing purchase orders, monitoring pricing, and working strategically with vendors to maintain inventory and service levels, while collaborating with the sales team to address customer needs.