Category Purchasing Manager

PRIMARY FUNCTION: The Category Purchasing Manager develops and implements all stated goals and objectives related to contract bidding, contract management, vendor sourcing, pricing, data analysis, continuous improvement projects, supply chain management, and sustainability initiatives. RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS:         Research suppliers for new or current commodities, solicit bids/ RFPs, negotiate best pricing for value, evaluate each and select vendor which meets supply needs; communicate selection with details to leadership if needed Evaluate opportunities for cost reduction, source appropriate vendors, solicit bid/ RFP, and negotiate pricing to reduce overall commodity costs and develop a pipeline for back-up suppliers Create supplier contracts developing language detailing specifics of purchasing agreements (i.e. pricing/ volume, required delivery schedule, etc.) ensuring required supplies area readily available as required Gather, compile, and format data into required reports and/or presentations to support vendor selection, pricing, quality of supplies, etc., communicating to management decisions surrounding vendor selection or pricing model Build and maintain strong relationships with new and current vendors to secure best pricing for required supplies Lead and support field purchasing managers, as well as others, in supply decisions and related daily tasks Provide guidance surrounding issues, recommending corrections or resolutions based on independent evaluation and judgement and follow-up to ensure issues have been resolved; communicate high level issues, plan to resolve to leaders Perform other related duties as requested SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES: While this role has no direct reports, it is considered a Leader of People role with required competencies: Sizing up People, Delegation, Planning, Customer Focus and Conflict Management as well as: Functional/Technical Skills, Action oriented, Problem solving, Learning on the Fly EDUCATION and CERTIFICATIONS: Bachelors degree in Business, Purchasing or other related discipline from an accredited institution Education and experience may be substituted for four-year degree Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) certification preferred EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS: Minimum five (5) years’ purchasing commodities in a manufacturing environment; poultry commodities purchasing preferred Proficient in computer skills including MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.) and specific software (i.e. Optiva, DocuSign, Adage, etc.) Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate statistics and/ or data into an easily understood presentation Strong customer focus with exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to fluently communicate effectively both up and down the chain of command and with external customers in a timely and professional manner Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects while…