Food Service Buyer

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Cooper-Booth Wholesale Company (CBW), established in 1865, is a family-owned, full-service distributor serving retailers in the Mid-Atlantic region. With a legacy of growth through acquisitions and a commitment to excellent service and value, CBW is now one of the Top 10 leading convenience store wholesalers in the U.S.

Position Summary

The Buyer is responsible for executing purchasing activities and ensuring product availability across assigned categories. This role manages day-to-day buying, vendor communications, pricing, and inventory replenishment while support Category Managers with strategic initiatives such as assortment planning, promotions, and vendor programs.

Key Responsibilities

Purchasing & Replenishment

• Place and confirm purchase orders with assigned vendors.
• Monitor inventory levels to maintain in-stock position which minimizing excess inventory.
• Track vendor fill rates and follow up on late or incomplete deliveries.
• Support demand planning and forecasting for core items.

Vendor & Pricing Management

• Serve as the primary contact for assigned vendors on routine purchasing matters.
• Maintain accurate product pricing, including cost updates and promotional pricing.
• Enter vendor deals, pre-book orders, and promotional programs into ERP systems.
• Assist Category Managers with vendor program execution and negotiations.

Category & Sales Support

• Assist with new item setup, SKU rationalization, and promotional execution.
• Provide sales and inventory data to support decision-making.
• Monitor competitor pricing and market conditions for assigned products.
• Participate in vendor meetings, internal reviews, and trade shows as needed.

Analysis & Reporting

• Run reports to identify out-of-stocks, slow movers, and high-performing products.
• Provide regular updates on purchase orders, inventory levels, and vendor performance.
• Support budgeting and forecasting through spend and cost analysis.

Qualifications

Required Skills

• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Effective communication skills with vendors and internal teams.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret sales, cost, and inventory data.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) and ERP/purchasing systems.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Education & Experience

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred (Business, Supply Chain, or related field).
• 2 - 4 years of experience in purchasing, buying, or vendor management.
• Wholesale, retail, or distribution experience strongly preferred.

Benefits

• Complete medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and accident insurances starting the first of the month following 60-days of employment.
• 401(k) after 6 months with 2% employer match.
• Paid Time Off (PTO); starting at 80 hours your first year.
• 6 Paid Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and other mental health benefits are available!
• Ability to purchase products from the warehouse at wholesale price.