Buyer

Why you’ll love it here! Benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, Tuition Reimbursement, Pet, and Legal Insurance 401k Community Service Day Spotlight Awards National Sales Excellence Awards CFSP Prep Certification Program   POSITION SUMMARY: The Buyer reports to the Manager, Purchasing Located in Omaha, NE, or Lenexa, KS Full-Time Hybrid   As a Buyer, you will play a pivotal role in optimizing our procurement processes, ensuring the acquisition of items and goods at the right price, quantity, and timing. Your focus on building strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers will contribute to meeting customer needs and achieving overall inventory and working capital objectives. This role requires a deep understanding of the assigned product category and collaboration with cross-functional teams, including accounting and operations, to handle invoicing, cost discrepancies, and receiving variances.   ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES: Strategic Procurement: Utilize MRP to procure special and stock items with a focus on the right quantity, cost, and timing. Update pricing, inventory, and master files to maintain accuracy. Supplier Relationship Management: Build and develop relationships with key suppliers to enhance collaboration and ensure reliable supply chains. Perform supplier reviews, address performance issues, and provide effective solutions. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Interact with sales personnel by providing price lists, updates on out-of-stock items, and recommending alternatives. Work closely with customer service and accounting teams to resolve issues, including payment discrepancies and product-related inquiries. RFQ Management: Compile comprehensive RFQ packages to facilitate informed decision-making in the procurement process. Timely Resolution: Ensure timely resolution of past-due purchase orders to meet departmental goals. Collaborate with the operations team to address receiving variances and over/under shipments.   COMPETENCIES: Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and experienced in MRP usage. Strong vendor management skills to establish and maintain effective supplier relationships. Advanced analytical skills with the ability to prioritize multiple projects and tasks in a fast-paced environment. Strong communication skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Demonstrated organizational abilities with a strong sense of urgency.   QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE: 2 – 4 years of buying/planning/sourcing/negotiating experience in a distribution environment or equivalent military or practical experience, or equivalent military or practical experience. Experience with paper, disposables, or janitorial products is a plus. Experience in the food service industry. Familiarity with contracts and rebates. Ability to successfully pass a background check post offer acceptance.