PURCHASING MANAGER
St. Charles Trading is a food ingredient distributor specializing in global supply chain solutions. We are seeking an experienced Purchasing Manager with a minimum of 5 years of experience in the food industry to lead strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations, and inventory optimization across raw materials and finished goods. This role is critical to margin protection, supply continuity, and scalable growth.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to grow their career in purchasing, supply chain, and international trade while contributing to the ongoing success of our expanding organization.
Responsibilities
Procurement & Sourcing:
- Manage purchasing for food ingredients, packaging, and related supplies
- Source and qualify new domestic and international suppliers
- Negotiate pricing, contracts, MOQ’s, rebates, freight terms, and payment terms
- Monitor commodity trends and proactively manage cost volatility
Inventory & Demand Planning:
- Maintain optimal inventory levels while minimizing obsolescence and shrinkage
- Collaborate with sales, production, and logistics on forecasting and demand planning
- Implement reorder points, safety stock, and supplier lead-time strategies
Supplier Management & Compliance:
- Ensure suppliers meet food safety, quality, and regulatory standards (FDA, USDA, GFSI, etc.)
- Conduct supplier scorecards and performance reviews
- Resolve shortages, quality issues, and delivery disruptions quickly
Financial & Systems Management:
- Drive cost savings initiatives and margin improvement
- Maintain accurate purchasing data in ERP / inventory systems
- Support audits, costing models, and reporting requirements
Preferred Qualifications:
- 5+ years of purchasing or procurement experience in the food industry (required)
- Strong knowledge of food ingredients, packaging, and supply chain operations
- Proven negotiation and vendor-management skills
- Experience with ERP systems (NetSuite, SAP, Oracle, or similar preferred)
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
- Ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced environment
Performance Incentive/Commission:
- 5–10% annual bonus or commission potential, tied to:
- Cost savings achieved
- Margin improvement
- Inventory turns and service levels
- Supplier performance KPIs
- (High performers typically earn an additional $7,500–$15,000+ annually)
At St. Charles Trading, We Offer:
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits
- Employer-paid life insurance, voluntary life insurance, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Benefits start on the 1st of the month following 30 days of employment
- An employee gym
- 401(k) plan with company match
Why Join Us:
- Direct impact on profitability and supply chain strategy
- High visibility role with leadership interaction
- Opportunity to build and optimize procurement processes
- Stable, growing food business with long-term upside
Requirements
- 3+ years of work experience with ERP Software
- 5+ years of work experience with SAP ERP
SALARY RANGE:
- $85,000 – $115,000