Manager, Purchasing

Plan, coordinate and measure the purchase of packaging and ingredients to support planned production for forecasted requirements.

Coordinate purchases supporting factory production that meet financial and inventory targets according to Star Kist operating plans.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Manage a team of 2 buyers to support all non-fish purchases to maintain efficient production at production and co-pack facilities.
• Implement sourcing/procurement strategies to support company objectives.
• Coordinate the execution of purchase orders and releases to support plant demands.
• Recommend changes to revise and implement corporate purchasing processes and projects to increase company efficiency.
• Coordinate delivery schedules with Plants and Co-pack facilities and troubleshoot problems through implementation of appropriate corrective actions, as necessary.
• Analyze market dynamics and assist in developing strategies to meet the company objectives by understanding industry trends, reviewing market prices, and recommending cost strategies for implementation.
• Develop and maintain strong business relationships with suppliers.
• Minimize costs by actively challenging vendor pricing, initiating cost savings projects, assessing vendor capabilities, and developing alternate sources using cross functional resources.
• Negotiate purchase contracts as necessary to ensure continuity of supply at the most competitive prices within the operating budgeted criteria.
• Evaluate supplier performance on an ongoing basis implementing corrective actions as necessary to ensure quality/cost/delivery objectives are achieved.
• Work with vendor base to understand future market trends so that annual standard costs for packaging and ingredients can be determined for the annual operating plan (AOP).
• Participate in cross functional projects by representing non-fish purchasing for new and current items and communicate key risks and opportunities.
• Facilitate graphic changes and communication between Star Kist’s Graphics Department, Packaging R&D, Plants and Co-pack facilities, and various packaging printers.
• Maintain the highest ethical standards and assure the fair and equitable treatment of all suppliers to support the Star Kist Values & Vision and provide the foundation for competitive advantage.

KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE/

COMPETENCIES:

• Strong knowledge of SAP.
• Experience in sourcing of packaging components (labels, flexible packaging, corrugate) and/or ingredients (oils, flavors, IQF vegetables).
• Technology savvy in Microsoft Office applications, most notable Excel.
• Ability to demonstrate initiative, planning, organizational and prioritization skills with a high commitment to meeting deadlines and managing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective communication and negotiation skills.
• Good analytical skills for price evaluations, spend analysis and inventory management.
• Possess sound business judgment with practical approach to problem solving.
• Ability to interact effectively with all levels within the organization.
• Ability to travel on a limited basis; some international travel required.

• Manager: 2-5 years purchasing experience
• Senior manager: 5+ years of purchasing and management experience

Star Kist Co. provides trusted, healthy, food products in the United States. An industry innovator, Star Kist was the first brand to introduce Star Kist single-serve pouch products, which include Tuna Creations®, Salmon Creations® and Chicken Creations™. As America's favorite tuna, Star Kist represents a tradition of quality, consumer trust and a commitment to sustainability. Star Kist's charismatic brand icon, Charlie® the Tuna, swam into the hearts of tuna fans in 1961 and is still a fan favorite today.

Star Kist Co. is a subsidiary of the Dongwon Group.

Star Kist Co. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We enthusiastically accept our responsibility to make employment decisions without regard to race, religious creed, ethnicity, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, marital status, registered domestic partner status, medical condition, disability, military service, pregnancy and related medical conditions, or any other classification protected by federal, state and local laws and ordinances.

EOE/AA/Vet/Disability