Join a pioneering food distribution company that's revolutionizing bulk ingredient sourcing for independent eateries, leveraging your expertise in category management. Our client is expanding its center-store program and needs a skilled Dried Goods Food Buyer who can secure the right products at the right price while keeping shelves (and kitchens) stocked. If you thrive on fast decisions, high-volume negotiations, and collaborative problem-solving, this growth track role is for you.
What You'll Own
- Forecast weekly and seasonal demand for packaged grains, pasta, condiments, and other shelf-stable SKUs, then translate that data into timely purchase orders.
- Negotiate cost, lead time, and service terms with regional and national vendors; leverage volume rebates and promotional allowances to improve margin.
- Monitor inbound loads daily, partnering with warehouse operations to anticipate constraints and keep inventory turns on target.
- Audit landed-cost reports to confirm pricing accuracy; reconcile variances with Accounts Payable and issue credits when needed.
- Analyze post-promotion performance, recommending future ad quantities and exit strategies for slow movers.
- Troubleshoot store-level allocation issues, resolving order discrepancies and billing questions quickly to maintain service level.
- Maintain clean item and vendor files in the buying system; enable secure remote access when working off-site.
The Expertise We're Seeking
- 2+ years of food, C-store, or grocery purchasing experience (center-store categories strongly preferred).
- Proven record of balancing cost, quality, and service in a high-SKU environment.
- Working knowledge of inventory KPIs such as turns, fill rate, and distressed shrink.
- Advanced Excel skills and familiarity with ERP or WMS platforms; experience with remote-work tools a plus.
- Clear, persuasive communication style with vendors and cross-functional teams.
- Bachelor's degree in supply chain, Business, or equivalent hands-on experience.
Why You'll Love It Here
- Hybrid flexibility – collaborate on site in Queens three days a week and work remotely the rest.
- Impact – own a critical spend category that feeds thousands of restaurants across the Northeast.
- Upward mobility – successful buyers can advance to Category Manager, Corporate Sourcing, or Supply Chain Analytics.
- Comprehensive rewards – competitive salary, performance bonus, 401(k) with match, robust health coverage, and employee-only bulk pricing on food staples.
About Blue Signal:
Blue Signal is an award-winning, executive search firm specializing in various specialties. Our recruiters have a proven track record of placing top-tier talent across industry verticals, with deep expertise in numerous professional services. Learn more at bit.ly/46Gs4yS