Assistant Buyer

Reports To Purchasing Manager, Toronto Summary The Assistant Buyer is responsible for the procurement of commodities, supplies, equipment, and services to be used by the organization. This person coordinates with kitchen, warehouse and storeroom team in order to maintain the appropriate level of inventory. This individual will utilize expert knowledge to purchase goods and services at the most favourable price for the company, while simultaneously building and maintaining strategic relationships with key suppliers. Other responsibilities include maintaining product and pricing information on the SAPMM system. The Assistant Buyer will actively implement customer service initiatives and strategies to reduce cost and improve quality and assist the Purchasing department with other project support. Job Duties Procure and place orders for goods, materials, and services for the organization in a timely and cost-effective manner. Creates Purchase Orders using SAPMM and places orders with external suppliers. Conducts sourcing for new products and meal presentations. Monitors material usage and/or changes in material usage and communicates to suppliers. Responds to internal and external order inquires. Coordinates with suppliers to address quality issues, delivery shortages and deviations from production specifications which may be required after hours and on weekends. Maintains Requisition System and changes as necessary. Research and survey buying markets in order to source the most optimal suppliers, in accordance with corporate objectives. Ensure effective communication with internal departments and suppliers to ensure material changes are known and processes are followed to gain efficiencies and implement improvements. Coordinate purchases with inventory or kitchen and warehouse managers to ensure rapid delivery and reception of goods and/or services. Prepare and administer bids, requests for quote, requests for proposal, requests for information, and other vendor documentation. Manage service level agreements, scope of work, and contract terms with service providers. Remain abreast of pricing trends, changes, restrictions, or any other variables that could affect purchasing strategies. Advise departments and business units of lead time required to obtain products or services. Investigate and resolve billing discrepancies using diplomacy and tact with vendors and service providers. Make recommendations and suggest options to Purchasing Manager regarding expected or unexpected material shortages. Negotiate return of items to vendors and coordinate subsequent credits, refunds, or replacements. Make alternate arrangements in the event of shortages or delayed deliveries to minimize impact on the organization. Adhere to and enforce compliance with purchasing policies, procedures, regulations, and laws. Maintains compliance with standards of CFIA, HACCP, Work Safe, and all other regulatory requirements. Supports company initiatives and works towards department goals. Performs additional duties assigned by the Purchasing Manager Requirements University degree in material management, business, or administration. Minimum of three years’ experience as a buyer and preferably in the international or Canadian food industry Associated degree or equivalent knowledge of SAPMM. Certification as a CPM, CSCP, APP, CPPB, CPPO, or equivalent is preferred Internalization of company initiatives including CFIA, HACCP, Work Safe, GQS. Computer literacy, including effective working skills of MS Word, Excel and e-mail required. Preferably have experience in using SAP Experience in a fast paced food service/retail environment Demonstrated knowledge of purchasing and contracting techniques and procedures. Strong knowledge of internal controls and finance management. Excellent people management skills, communication and negotiation skills. Strong customer service skills and the flexibility to respond to customer and supplier requests in a timely manner. R…

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