Overview:
Qualifications:
The Protein Corporate Buyer is responsible for managing the procurement of animal-based protein products in Beef, Poultry & Egg, Pork, Seafood and Dairy categories. This includes ensuring supply continuity, cost management lead and optimization, supplier performance management, and alignment with company standards and cross-functional objectives.
Responsibilities:
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Duties, responsibilities and activities are listed in no particular order and may be changed or updated at any time with or without notice.)
Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management
- Source and manage suppliers of animal-based protein products for the categories of beef, poultry and egg, pork, seafood and alternate sources, ensuring alignment with quality, sustainability, and cost goals.
- Maintain supplier data, capabilities, and offerings in procurement systems on connection with company strategic goals, staying informed on category market trends, pricing, and update strategies to mitigate risk and capture value as market evolves
- Lead sourcing initiatives including RFPs, supplier selection, contract negotiations and ensure supplier compliance with terms and conditions.
- Category & Inventory Management
- Reconcile contracts against blanket orders in coordination with cross functional teams and plant buyers as well as conducting root cause analysis for variances in cost and volume
- Monitor and manage aging inventory, raw material transfers, and disposition strategies
- Act as the primary category contact for plant personnel and support production continuity
- Cross-Functional Collaboration & Project Execution
- Represent procurement in cross-functional teams, supporting initiatives in R&D, operations, and finance as well as externally in category forums and procurement events.
- Assist in new material sourcing, formula transitions, and plant-to-plant transfers.
- Lead the category annual budgeting process and material standards reviews.
- Cost Optimization & Process Improvement
- Drive cost reduction initiatives using a multi-functional team approach.
- Optimize supplier base and SKU portfolio to improve efficiency and reduce complexity.
- Identify and implement process improvements across the procurement lifecycle.
- Risk Management & Compliance
- Ensure adherence to food safety, regulatory, and animal welfare standards.
- Respond effectively to supply disruptions and crises, maintaining business continuity.
- Maintain accurate procurement data and ensure compliance with internal controls.
Qualifications:
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in business, Food Science, Supply Chain, or related field.
- 3–5 years of procurement experience, preferably in protein or food manufacturing.
- Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.
- Proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Experience in inventory management and procurement operations
- Range of Pay - $75,000 - $85,000, annually. Plus, 15% annual bonus.
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