Sr Buyer

Job Summary:

Purchases materials, supplies, and packaging at the most favorable terms for the organization. Qualifies vendors, evaluates bids, and negotiates prices and terms for raw materials and packaging. Tracks purchases, monitors vendor quality, and maintains a current database of vendor information. Requires broad knowledge of Briess operations and policies, in addition to high level of purchasing experience, positive interactions, analytical, and technical skills.

Job Responsibilities:

• Identify and develop strategic supply sources for the assigned commodities. Manage relationships with key suppliers, resolve supplier issues, and optimize suppliers' performance or recommend alternative sourcing.
• Analyze market trends, pricing, and quality of products to ensure the best value for the organization.
• Enter and receive purchase orders in the ERP system (e.g., Microsoft Dynamics SL, Aptean JustFood).
• Conduct cost and spend analysis to develop cost savings initiatives through various cost reduction options.
• Participate in supplier assessment and manage new supplier approval process.
• Assist Quality department in vendor and material documentation requirements.
• Work cross functionally with Operations, Quality, Tech Services, and other departments for improvement, new product, and resolution initiatives.
• Responsible for gathering relevant benchmark data and supplying market intelligence.
• Assist and provide backup support for MRO Purchasing and Inventory teams.

Background & Experience:

Bachelor degree in supply chain management, purchasing or another business-related field. 5-10 years purchasing experience in the food, feed, or packaging industries. Team oriented and excellent communication skills are essential. Related experience and/or training and with a proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Business Central.