Purchasing Manager

Description

POSITION SUMMARY

This position leads sourcing, procurement, and inventory management operations to ensure the timely and cost-effective acquisition of goods and services. The role manages supplier relationships, negotiates contracts, and aligns purchasing with business needs across multiple facilities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Sourcing & Procurement – Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers based on price, quality, reliability, and alignment with company needs.
• Negotiation – Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms to secure cost-effective agreements.
• Purchase Order Management – Create, process, and track purchase orders to ensure accurate and timely deliveries.
• Supplier Relationship Management – Build and maintain strong vendor partnerships to support long-term business goals.
• Inventory Control – Monitor stock levels and coordinate with warehouse teams to prevent shortages or overstocking. Maintain inventory across BV, Shipping, Caterpillar, Area 77, and 02 Buildings.
• Forklift Operations – Safely operate forklifts to manage and move inventory as needed.
• Dock Warehouse Coordination – Collaborate with the Dock Warehouse team to maintain organized shipping inventory.
• Market Research – Stay informed on trends, emerging products, and new suppliers.
• Cost Control – Review purchasing data to identify and implement cost-saving strategies.
• Compliance & Documentation – Ensure all purchasing activities comply with company policies, laws, and industry standards.
• Quality Assurance – Partner with the quality control team to verify that purchased goods meet standards.
• Internal Coordination – Work cross-functionally with logistics, finance, production, and other departments to align procurement with operational needs.
• Freight & Logistics – Coordinate with freight companies and BI driving teams to arrange deliveries and transfers at the best possible rates.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work in both office and warehouse settings, including varying temperatures, dust, and noise.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and operate forklifts/material-handling equipment.
• Regular standing, walking, bending, and reaching in warehouse environments.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Procurement & Sourcing: Proven experience in supplier selection, contract negotiation, cost analysis, and vendor evaluation.
• Inventory & Supply Chain: Strong background in inventory control, demand forecasting, and aligning purchasing with production or operational needs.
• Financial & Analytical Skills: Ability to interpret spend reports, analyze purchasing trends, and develop cost-saving strategies.
• Compliance & Quality Assurance: Knowledge of procurement laws, ethical sourcing, and working with QC teams to meet product standards.
• Technology & Tools: Proficiency with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, or similar), supplier management platforms, and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, reporting tools).
• Leadership & Communication: Experience managing or mentoring a purchasing team, with excellent negotiation and relationship-building skills.
• Industry Knowledge: 5–7 years of purchasing/procurement experience, with at least 2–3 years in a supervisory or management role. Industry-related experience in agriculture, biological products, or manufacturing is preferred.

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Finance, or a related field. - An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Professional certifications such as CPPB, CPSM, or CPIM are desirable but not required.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Must be able to travel between company sites in the Northern California region as needed.