Position

Purchasing Specialist

Summary

The Purchasing Specialist is responsible for supporting the procurement of food and non-food products by managing vendor relationships, conducting product research, negotiating pricing, monitoring inventory, and coordinating purchasing activities across multiple departments. This role works closely with Sales, Warehouse, and Accounting teams to ensure product availability, cost efficiency, quality standards, and customer satisfaction while supporting the company's overall business objectives.

Essential Duties

Purchasing & Vendor Management

Assist in developing purchasing strategies to support business objectives and operational needs
Research market trends, evaluate supplier proposals, and create purchase orders based on sales forecasts and inventory requirements
Purchase both food and non-food products while developing and maintaining strong vendor relationships
Negotiate pricing, terms, and service agreements with suppliers
Coordinate transportation logistics and delivery schedules with vendors and carriers
Conduct product research and identify new product opportunities based on market trends and customer demand

Inventory & Cost Management

Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with Warehouse to maintain appropriate stock levels
Calculate product costs and assist in determining pricing to achieve target profit margins
Monitor supplier performance, purchasing records, and vendor contracts
Prepare purchasing reports and maintain accurate records of purchase orders, invoices, and supplier agreements
Process branch purchase orders and issue invoices

Quality Assurance & Cross-functional Support

Ensure product quality through sample testing, supplier communication, and customer feedback
Coordinate with Sales, Warehouse, and Accounting teams to resolve purchasing, shipping, and quality-related issues
Support Sales and Marketing teams by providing product information and availability
Assist Sales with contract opportunities, customer proposals, negotiations, marketing plans, and sales activities
Participate in sales and marketing promotions, including monthly promotional materials

Meetings & Administrative Support

Participate in weekly purchasing and sales meetings
Attend company meetings and events as required
Perform additional duties assigned by the Purchasing Manager
Respond promptly to management requests and support departmental operations

Working Hours / Working Style

Monday – Friday

9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Full-time

On-site

Exempt Position

Working Location

Elk Grove Village, IL

Salary / Benefit

56-60K (DOE)

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

401(k)

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Company Holidays

Holidays

U.S. National Holidays

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree preferred (or equivalent work experience)
Minimum 3 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, supply chain, or inventory management
Experience in food distribution, food importing, wholesale, or related industries preferred
Knowledge of Japanese food products is highly preferred
Strong negotiation, vendor management, and analytical skills
Experience with inventory management and purchasing systems (ERP experience preferred)
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to collaborate effectively with Sales, Warehouse, Accounting, and external vendors
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment