Strategic Food & Protein Buyer (Seafood Focus)

Vaco; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 79,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Vaco in Chicago, IL is hiring a Buyer to oversee procurement of raw materials, ingredients, and packaging for our food production operations. The role requires strong purchasing, supplier negotiation, forecasting, and inventory management experience within the food industry.

Experience buying proteins (fish/seafood, pork, chicken, beef) is strongly preferred, along with ERP software such as Microsoft Dynamics GP, and robust Excel skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Business or related field.
• 5-10 years of progressive purchasing/buying experience.
• Experience purchasing protein products such as fish/seafood, pork, chicken, or beef strongly preferred.
• Seafood purchasing experience is a major plus.
• Strong supplier negotiation and vendor management experience.
• Demonstrated ability to forecast material needs based on production schedules and demand.
• Previous experience supervising staff.
• Experience with electronic business/ERP software.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Dynamics GP or similar software.

Responsibilities

• Purchase raw materials, ingredients, packaging, and other production-related supplies.
• Negotiate with suppliers to obtain competitive pricing, favorable terms, quality products, and reliable service.
• Seek competitive bids for purchases, analyze proposals, and make purchasing recommendations and awards.
• Negotiate supplier contracts when appropriate and monitor market costs throughout contract terms.
• Interpret production schedules and forecasts to determine material and purchasing needs.
• Monitor purchase order delivery timelines and investigate late or delinquent shipments.
• Maintain accurate and current supplier records, including required documentation and expiration dates.
• Communicate company requirements to suppliers regarding product specifications, lot limitations, and receiving appointments.
• Research and develop new sources of supply when existing suppliers cannot meet company standards.
• Vet prospective suppliers through the company's vendor qualification process.
• Maintain compliance with ASC, MSC, OU, FSMA, BRCGS, and other applicable food safety requirements.

Skills

Purchasing

Supplier negotiation

Forecasting

Inventory management

Vendor management

Food industry experience

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business or related field

Tools

Microsoft Dynamics GP

Excel

ERP software

Job description

Vaco in Chicago, IL is hiring a Buyer to oversee procurement of raw materials, ingredients, and packaging for our food production operations. The role requires strong purchasing, supplier negotiation, forecasting, and inventory management experience within the food industry.

Experience buying proteins (fish/seafood, pork, chicken, beef) is strongly preferred, along with ERP software such as Microsoft Dynamics GP, and robust Excel skills.