Overview

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionSpokane Produce, Inc - Who We Are:Spokane Produce, Inc. is an independent family owned and operated company. We have been in business since the 1940's. We provide the finest quality products to grocery, restaurant, other wholesalers and government agencies with the highest level of customer service in the Northwest.Spokane Produce is one of the few suppliers dedicated to taking the time and effort in developing a strong supplier/customer relationship on a long-term basis. At Spokane Produce, we believe we can provide our customers with an honest relationship, the finest quality fresh produce and related products combined with a superior level of customer service.The quality of an organization is indeed the product of the people who make it all happen. Our success is due to our amazing team of employees. We are looking to add qualified talent to our dedicated and valued team.What We Offer:We offer competitive compensation starting at $30.00+ hourly depending on experience.We offer a benefits package including medical/dental/vision/company paid life insurance. All insurance available first of the month after 60 daysPaid time off and Paid holidays401k with employer matchCoverage under state sick leaveEmployee Assistance ProgramPaid on the job trainingJob StabilityOpportunities for growth and advancement within our company - We do promote withinEmployee discounts on in-house purchasesSpokane Produce, Inc. is seeking a qualified Produce Buyer to add to our team.JOB SUMMARY:As a member of our Buying team, this position is responsible for identifying and procuring conventional and organic products for our Retail, Wholesale, and Food Service customers. The ideal candidate is passionate about sourcing the best products available, creating mutually beneficial relationships with growers and working with customers collaboratively (internally and externally) to create the highest quality and value.ESSENTIAL DUTIES:Communicate and direct sales team on produce categories.Negotiate and collaborate with suppliers on pricing, product assortment, promotions, ads, services, and support; acts as primary contact with direct suppliers. Continually identify and determine optimum source of supply to ensure best cost and highest quality products and service.Select and order commodities from growers and purchase commodities on open market basing selection on nature of clientele, or demand for specific commodity utilizing knowledge of various articles of commerce and experience as buyerCheck and inspect quality of incoming products specific to each individual buyer.Participate in daily warehouse walks to inspect and grade or appraise agricultural and other commodities offered for sale to determine value and yieldManage inventory count sheets to assure accuracy; manage weekly availability guides to facilitate store orderingManage inventory, shrink and service levels to meet or exceed company expectationsEstablish, maintain and manage relationships with suppliersCommunicate effectively and routinely with sales, warehousing, and transportation departmentsMonitor, manage and report business trends in the industry and maintain awareness of market trends, food safety, technology, and weather across all growing regionsConduct sales and profit analyses; maintain and review price files and competitive price checksProactively seek out and communicate new and innovative items to customersMust be able to travel occasionally (seasonal travel)Maintain high quality standards while purchasing products.Acquire promotional pricing and set proper volumes for promotional extra sales.Must follow good manufacturing practices.Perform other duties as assigned.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:Must maintain the highest level of customer service at all times5+ years of produce (mixed items) experience. Knowledge of organic items and processed itemsKnowledge of USDA standardsStrong communication and relationship building skills as well as the ability to work eff