Job Overview

We are a busy food distribution company seeking a energetic and proactive Category Buyer to join our procurement team for a 12-month contract. The successful candidate will be required to work in person Monday through Friday starting at 8:00AM to 5:00PM with a one hour unpaid eating break. In this vital role, you will drive sourcing strategies, manage vendor relationships, and optimize purchasing processes to ensure the seamless supply of products across various categories. Your energetic approach will help us achieve cost efficiencies, improve supply chain resilience, and support our food distribution operations. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and are passionate about strategic sourcing and vendor management, this is your opportunity to make a significant impact!

Duties

- Develop and implement procurement strategies to optimize cost savings and operational efficiencies
- Identify and evaluate potential vendors and suppliers based on quality, reliability and pricing
- Negotiate contracts and agreements with suppliers to secure favorable terms and conditions
- Monitor supplier performance and resolve any issues or disputes that may arise
- Collaborate with internal staff to understand their procurement needs and requirements
- Keep up to date with market trends, economic factors, and regulatory changes that may impact procurement
- Manage and oversee inventory and distress levels
- Oversee and negotiate rebate terms with suppliers
- Assist in the profitability models of the business by setting wholesale pricing
- guidance
- Educate salespeople regarding foodservice items (set up and facilitate lunch & learn sessions)
- Adhere to and enforce Company policies and procedures
- All other duties as assigned from time to time by supervisor, management and ownership

Skills





- Strong negotiation and contract management
- Deep knowledge of food safety, ingredients and the food service industry supply chain
- Strong data analysis skills for reviewing vendor and company fill rates, distress rates, sales and pricing
- Strong communication skills and professional attitude to work closely with vendor manufacturers and the company’s sales team
- Excellent organizational / time management skills
- Ability to work quickly, multi-task and meet deadlines
- Strong attention to detail and good problem-solving skills
- Thrives in a fast-paced and sometimes stressful environment
- Ability to be flexible/adaptable to changing needs of the department
- Safety conscious and ability to adhere to preventative measures in place to
- prevent injuries

Education and Experience Requirements:

- Post graduate education – College or University
- 1-3 years relevant experience

We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including those with disabilities and accommodation needs. Please notify us if you have any accessibility requirements. Information gathered will only be used for the purpose of determining employment suitability, and will remain confidential.

All applicants are thanked for their interest but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Join us as a Category Buyer and become a key driver of our procurement excellence! Bring your energy, expertise, and strategic mindset to help us build a resilient supply chain that supports our success.

Pay: $45,000.00-$65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

- Discounted or free food
- On-site parking

Experience:

- Procurement: 1 year (preferred)

Language:

- English (required)
- French (preferred)

Location:

- Smiths Falls, ON K7A 3R3 (preferred)

Work Location: In person

📌 Category Buyer (Food Distribution) (Canada)
🏢 HK Food Services
📍 Canada