Produce Buyer

Why choose us?Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Join us for an exciting opportunity at Albertsons Companies, where innovation and customer service go hand-in-hand!At Albertsons Companies, we are looking for someone who's not just seeking a job, but someone who wants to make an impact. In this role, you'll have the opportunity to lead, innovate, and contribute to the growth of a company that values great service and lasting customer relationships. This position offers the chance to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment that's constantly evolving.Main responsibilities:The Produce Buyer is responsible for the profitable procurement and timely delivery of products for assigned lines. Works closely with Category Managers to achieve the goals of the company. Provides supply chain/inventory management for promotionally active categories and corresponding financial accountabilities. Buys in accordance with all policies and procedures established by the Company, Category Manager(s), and Distribution.Obtain best possible product costs, quality and service at all times.Ensure that established policies and procedures are understood and adhered to by all procurement buying staff.Strive to obtain inventory and turn goals, while maintaining service level and minimizing distress.Collaborate with Procurement Manager and Quality Assurance to ensure product specifications are met and in compliance with all federal, state and local regulatory and company requirements.Interface with other departments and division personnel to accomplish job functions. Develop and maintain good working relationships with vendors, store operations, distribution center and division office personnel.Review acquisition costs to ensure items purchased are at the lowest cost consistent with considerations of quality, reliability of source, and urgency of need.Assess current inventory, market conditions, availability, and promotional impact to forecast order quantities and make recommendations to the merchandising team.Conduct post-promotional reviews and analysis to determine if promotional requirements were met and develop solutions for problem areas.Review and resolve inventory issues at store level as a result of allocations or order issues.Review and analyze daily and weekly reports to monitor costs, quality, service level, inventory turns, and distress and make adjustments as needed.Visit stores, as needed, to monitor programs, obtain store feedback and to assess overall implementation effectiveness.Manage Accounts Payable variance processes for distribution sourced items to ensure correct prices have been invoiced.Resolve store billing questions by researching discrepancies submitted at store level with Store Billing and entering credits where appropriate or providing resolution.Resolve store distribution issues by acting as a liaison with the Transportation department, QA and store associates.Maintain all necessary department files and records.Coordinate with Warehouse Operations to maintain the proper product flow through the facility, in a timely manner.Remote access (buying system) from home or off site location when necessary.We are looking for candidates who possess the following:Education Level: Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Sciences, Business, Marketing, Logistics or related field or relevant industry experience or marketing, accounting, logistics and financial management practices preferred.Experience Level: Minimum of 2 plus years of Purchasing or Vendor Management experience in industry or retail: produce experience a plus.Skills and Experiences:Retail operations/Marketing/Logistics experience preferred or strong understanding of store operations and merchandising methodologies and practices.Understanding of perishable procurement, logistics, inventory management, marketing, accounting and financial management practices.Excellent organizational and analytical skills; ability to take initiative and make fact based decisions.Ability to plan and organize effectivelyWritten and verbal communication skills as well as interpersonal skills to develop and maintain effective business relationships both internally and externally.Strong computer aptitude in MS-Office including Word, Excel and Access.Ability to concentrate and deal with frequent interruptionsWe also provide a variety of benefits including:Competitive wages paid weeklyAssociate discountsHealth and financial well-being benefits for eligible associates (Medical, Dental, 401k and more!)Time off (vacation, holidays, sick pay). For eligibility requirements please visit myACI BenefitsLeaders invested in your training, career growth and developmentAn inclusive work environment with talented colleagues who reflect the communities we serveOur Values – Click below to view video:A copy of the full job description can be made available to you.J-18808-Ljbffr