As a Buyer, your primary responsibility is to source and procure high-quality ingredients, products, and supplies necessary for the successful operation of the company's food and beverage offerings. You will play a crucial role in maintaining optimal inventory levels, negotiating contracts with suppliers, and ensuring cost-effectiveness while upholding quality standards. Your expertise in market trends, vendor management, and strategic sourcing will contribute to the overall success and profitability of the organization.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Strategic Sourcing:
- Researching and identifying potential suppliers for food and beverage ingredients, products, and supplies.
- Evaluating supplier capabilities, quality standards, pricing, and delivery terms.
- Developing and maintaining relationships with key suppliers to ensure a consistent and reliable supply chain.
2. Procurement:
- Creating purchase orders based on inventory levels, production schedules, and sales forecasts.
- Negotiating contracts and terms with suppliers to achieve favorable pricing, payment terms, and quality assurance agreements.
- Monitoring market trends and pricing fluctuations to make informed purchasing decisions.
- Collaborating with internal stakeholders such as chefs, production managers, and inventory controllers to align procurement activities with operational needs.
3. Inventory Management:
- Maintaining accurate records of inventory levels and consumption patterns.
- Implementing inventory control measures to minimize waste and optimize stock levels.
- Conducting regular inventory audits to identify discrepancies and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
4. Quality Assurance:
- Establishing and enforcing quality standards for all purchased goods.
- Conducting supplier audits and inspections to assess compliance with quality specifications and food safety regulations.
- Collaborating with quality assurance teams to address any issues related to product quality or safety.
5. Cost Management:
- Monitoring and analyzing procurement costs to identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements.
- Developing and implementing cost reduction strategies without compromising product quality or supplier relationships.
- Tracking and reporting key performance indicators (KPIs) related to procurement costs, inventory turnover, and supplier performance.
6. Vendor Relationship Management:
- Building and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers through effective communication and collaboration.
- Resolving any issues or disputes with suppliers in a timely and professional manner.
- Conducting regular vendor performance reviews to assess reliability, quality, and service levels.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
- Proven experience working as a buyer or procurement specialist in the food and beverage industry.
- Strong knowledge of food and beverage products, ingredients, and supply chain dynamics.
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
