POSITION SUMMARY:

In this position, the Category Buyer must have analytical and problem-solving skills demonstrated by the review of vendor/supplier proposals, evaluation of available competitive information, and selection of best alternatives. Negotiation skills are also required. The position must have the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with internal business lines as well as our vendors/suppliers. Must be detail oriented with the ability to prepare, review and evaluate purchase contracts and associated documents. Must be a proven leader, able to multitask under pressure, and always aware of their competition, profit margins, and sales objectives.

Pitco Foods offers a competitive health benefits package as well as paid time off, holiday pay, and access to a 401k retirement plan.

DAILY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Category management is focused on HABA, GM, and Store Supply, but may include some Grocery, Non-Foods, and Institutional item management.
• Perform procurement-related functions related to inventory management, product quality, consumer safety (recalls), and supply chain.
• Evaluate suppliers by considering the price, quality, availability, and other criteria.
• Interview vendors and visit suppliers' facilities to learn about products, services, and pricing
• Negotiate contracts with vendors and suppliers to obtain the best deals on behalf of the company
• Interacts with suppliers to schedule delivery times and resolve shipping errors.
• Authorize payments and maintain receipts, records, and inventories.
• Purchase products across all assigned categories for distribution through Pitco Foods warehouses.
• Coordinates new product introductions. Develops pricing and promotional programs, estimates sales and profit margins, and monitors sales.
• Works closely with sales representatives and suppliers to keep informed of retailer needs, and problems and makes recommendations. Identifies sales and promotional opportunities along with competitor promotional and pricing strategies.
• Works with vendors and suppliers to develop promotional programs for assigned product lines.
• Prepares promotional and marketing programs by product coordinates monthly promotional programs and monitors the effectiveness of programs.
• Achieve targeted service levels by monitoring, identifying, reacting to, and solving potential issues.
• Studies product movement histories, lead times, and current movement selecting items to be discontinued.
• Schedules promotional offerings and negotiates the terms with the manufacturers to notify internal departments of upcoming promotions. Captures all promotional information in the system and maintains the beginning and end of promotion cycles.
• Partners with marketing to develop monthly ads and offerings, which include item selection based on seasonality and being competitive within our market, by developing promotional pricing based on forward buys, diverter buys, and vendor-negotiated buys. Will review of ad slick and, assist in the pre-print proofing process,
• Analyze and recommend solutions for inventory problems, maintain ordering parameters, and accurate manufacture and item information within the purchasing system. SKU rationalization. Ensures accurate information for all product pricing which includes safety stock, bracket pricing, unit of measure, description, and pack size.
• Reviews daily, weekly and monthly reports, and will respond to the needs of the business.
• Maintenance of vendor files to include current and accurate contact information, lead times, and order cycles.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• Communication Articulates information in a way that can be easily understood by employees, members, and suppliers. Actively listens to fellow employees, members, and managers.
• Member Service Exhibits a professional demeanor toward others. Unselfishly serves others and assists members, employees, and suppliers in a prompt and effective manner while following company procedures. Ability to identify problems, finds solutions, and makes sound decisions that reflect PITCO Foods Code of Ethics.
• Self-Motivated Well-organized and able to prioritize, multi-task, and adhere to deadlines while working efficiently and independently with minimal supervision. Accepts responsibility for his/her choices and decisions. Always maintains a positive attitude.
• Team Player Cooperates well with a variety of personalities and individuals and participates in a professional manner to accomplish the business goal. Willingness to perform tasks assigned by supervisors and to assist others as needed.
• Flexibility Adjusts positively to changes in direction or assignment. Ability to do more than one task during a work shift. Willingness and ability to comply with new programs, methods, practices, and procedures.

Minimum Job Qualifications

• Knowledge of the retail grocery industry and corresponding products preferred.
• Background in health and beauty, store supplies, and general merchandise experience required.
• Thorough knowledge of Hispanic and US HABA retail is fundamental.
• Utilization of computer applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Blue Ridge Purchasing Software, and the ability to effectively communicate via Microsoft Outlook or Gmail.
• Bi-lingual is a plus but not required

Education

• Degree in Marketing, Finance, Economics, or related field OR equivalent education, training, and/or experience demonstrating considerable knowledge of procurement and promotional practices in Retail Grocery.

Experience

• Minimum required experience: Three to four years of retail purchasing and Five years in food retail.

Other Skills and Abilities

• Ability to work independently and/or as a team member

Work Remotely

• No

Work Location

• 3575 Ramos Dr. West Sacramento CA 95691
• This employer does not sponsor worker visas.