VP Purchasing

The Company is a state-of-the-art food manufacturer headquartered in New Jersey. Privately operated since 1995, the company is now one of the country’s largest producers and distributors of fruit juices, drinks and yogurt. The company is also a leading private label and co-pack juice and yogurt producer, manufacturing products for numerous leading retailers and brands.

Over 500 highly skilled and dedicated employees staff the company’s complex, distributing its products internationally to consumers through supermarkets, warehouse club stores, convenience stores, wholesalers, dairy distributors, independent grocery stores and food service organizations. The portfolio of branded products are distributed primarily on the East Coast, where they enjoy leading market shares in the categories in which they compete.

The investments the company has made in its state-of-the-art plants and manufacturing systems reflect its continued commitment to provide only the highest quality products and services while supporting the elevated volume and service requirements of today's customers. Maintaining SQF Level 2, Grade A and HACCP certifications, this company additionally boasts the most modern and technologically advanced refrigerated juice processing plant in the United States.

From its production facilities to its innovative marketing techniques, the company is committed to employing the best in human resources and physical assets to produce yogurt and juice products that set the standard for the food manufacturing industry.

The Vice President, Purchasing is responsible for overseeing and managing the procurement of all plant equipment, machinery, related technologies, parts room maintenance, service procurement as well as providing direction on capital projects. This role ensures that all equipment and related supplies required for food manufacturing are sourced efficiently, cost-effectively, and in compliance with quality and safety standards. Additionally, the Vice President, Purchasing will oversee capital procurement for facility expansions, equipment purchases, and major infrastructure projects that support the company’s manufacturing capabilities.

This leadership position involves strategic planning, supplier negotiations, capital project management, inventory oversight, and cost analysis.

• Assist in the development and implementation of the overall purchasing strategy for capital expenditure on plant facilities and related supplies and services.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to align procurement and capital project goals with corporate objectives and manufacturing needs.
• Identify new suppliers, equipment vendors, and alternative sourcing options to mitigate risk and ensure continuous supply of materials and equipment.
• Procure company-wide service agreements, managing statement-of-work based contracts to secure expertise, increase compliance, and drive cost-effectiveness.

• Lead procurement activities for capital projects, including acquisition of machinery, technology, and equipment to support facility expansions and production line upgrades.
• Develop and manage budgets for capital projects, ensuring that all purchases align with project timelines and financial constraints.
• Work closely with the production and operations teams to ensure the timely and cost-effective procurement of capital assets required for new or expanded facilities.
• Oversee the tendering and contracting process for capital projects, ensuring compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Manage vendor relationships for capital projects and equipment suppliers, negotiating pricing, warranties, and service agreements.
• Monitor progress on capital projects and resolve issues related to equipment delivery, installation, and commissioning.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with key suppliers of machinery, technology, equipment and services ensuring timely delivery at competitive prices.
• Lead negotiations on pricing,contract terms, and agreements with suppliers.
• Conduct supplier audits and performance evaluations to ensure compliance with quality standards, cost targets, and delivery schedules.

• Implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising product quality or safety.
• Monitor trends in procurement cost and provide recommendations to leadership for mitigating price volatility.
• Identify and implement efficient sourcing and procurement methods to reduce overall expenses, both operational and capital.

• Ensure all purchase materials and capital assets comply with industry regulations, food safety standards, and company quality specifications.
• Stay informed about evolving food safety laws, sustainability practices, and environmental guidelines affecting procurement.

• Lead, mentor, and develop the purchasing team, fostering a…