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Grocery Buyer – Retail – Chicago, IL

Join our dynamic team as a Grocery Buyer – Retail, where you’ll play a crucial role in curating a diverse and high-quality product selection for our customers. In this position, you’ll leverage your keen market insight and negotiation skills to source, evaluate, and purchase grocery products that align with our brand values and customer expectations. If you’re passionate about food trends, have a strategic mindset, and thrive in a fast-paced retail environment, we invite you to contribute to our success and enhance our customers’ shopping experience.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement purchasing strategies in alignment with company goals and market trends.
  • Identify and source new suppliers, negotiating contracts and terms to secure cost-effective deals.
  • Monitor inventory levels to ensure optimal stock quantities, minimizing overstock and stockouts.
  • Analyze sales data and consumer trends to forecast demand and adjust buying strategies accordingly.
  • Maintain strong relationships with vendors, ensuring timely delivery and high-quality products.
  • Collaborate with store managers and merchandising teams to curate product assortments that meet customer needs.
  • Conduct regular market research to stay informed about competitors and pricing strategies.
  • Manage budgets and track spending to ensure financial efficiency and profitability.
  • Ensure compliance with all food safety and quality standards, including local, state, and federal regulations.
  • Review and approve purchase orders, ensuring accuracy and adherence to budget constraints.
  • Coordinate with logistics and distribution teams to streamline product flow from suppliers to stores.
  • Evaluate supplier performance regularly, addressing any issues related to service or product quality.
  • Implement promotional strategies and collaborate with marketing teams to drive sales of key product lines.
  • Prepare and present reports on purchasing activities, including cost analysis and market conditions.
  • Stay updated on industry innovations and emerging products to introduce new offerings to the store portfolio.

Requirements

Ability to assess and forecast consumer demand accurately.

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or related field.

Minimum of 5 years of experience in retail buying or procurement.

Strong knowledge of grocery products and market trends.

Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills.

Proficiency in inventory management software and Microsoft Office Suite.

Ability to analyze and interpret sales data and market research.

Strong organizational and time-management skills.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced retail environment.

Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

Familiarity with supply chain processes and logistics.

Ability to travel as needed for vendor meetings and trade shows.

Strong attention to detail and analytical skills.

Proven track record of achieving sales and profitability targets.

$80-100K, Health, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance, Short Term Disability and Life Insurance, PTO.

FMS is your trusted and proven source for food distribution and supply chain recruiting.