Purchaser / Negotiator

Overview To consolidate the Garden Centre Group Co-op's buying power across 241 vendors and convert it into the best sustainable total cost, terms and program value for members — across both hardgoods and green goods. Core responsibilities Negotiation & vendor management Own the negotiation of price, discount tiers, rebates, early-buy terms, freight, payment terms, returns and marketing/program funds across all 241 vendors. Segment the vendor base — a critical top tier managed intensively, a long tail managed by exception — and set a call/visit cadence accordingly. Run structured annual line reviews with key vendors; benchmark competing suppliers; consolidate volume where it strengthens leverage without harming member choice. Adapt approach by vendor type: program and rebate engineering with multinationals; reliability, terms and partnership with family suppliers. Working with category chairs and members Partner with each category chair to learn the history of the category and the SKUs that matter to members — which lines are non-negotiable, which vendors have loyalty, where past deals were won or lost. Translate member needs into buying strategy; bring proposed vendor changes to the Board and relevant chair before acting. Communicate available deals, program funds and early-order windows clearly so members can actually capture them. Green goods & hardgoods breadth Hardgoods: pottery, soils and amendments, fertilizers and chemicals, tools, irrigation, hard landscape, décor, seasonal and giftware. Green goods: manage early-order programs, availability and crop commitments; buy for quality ,best price for size, establish 1st to introduce new plant program, create contracted grower program, coordinate with growers and the green goods chair. Analysis, systems & reporting Track spend, savings, cost-avoidance, rebate accrual and program participation; ( with support from the GCGC office ); report results to the Board each quarter. Maintain clean vendor and SKU data and seasonal demand with the category chairs. Watch input-cost trends and vendor price-increase announcements, and get ahead of them. Required Qualifications: 5+ years in buying, procurement or category management, with a real negotiation track record Demonstrated hardgoods buying strength Strong analytics (Excel; ERP/purchasing systems) Excellent relationship and communication skills (proficient in English) Preferred Qualifications: Garden-centre, nursery, horticulture or DIY/home experience Working knowledge of green goods / plant material/ SCMP or equivalent (or willingness to earn it) Experience in a co-op, buying group or GPO Compensation: Base salary will be commensurate with the successful candidate’s qualifications, experience and demonstrated capabilities. This position has an anticipated stating salary of approximately $110,000 per year. The position also includes performance-based bonus opportunities tied to established individual and organizational objectives. Pay: From $110,000.00 per year Work Location: Remote

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