Buyer

About the role

FreshEdge is a growing network of produce and specialty distributors serving customers in 25 states. We are seeking a Buyer who can build relationships with vendors and colleagues, take initiative, and contribute to our strategic goals.

Essential Functions

• Manage daily replenishment activities to maintain appropriate inventory levels across all product categories at the hub facility
• Purchase products based on demand signals, inventory targets, supplier lead times, and order minimums
• Partner closely with warehouse operations to address inventory challenges, shortages, substitutions, and receiving issues in real time
• Analyze purchasing trends, forecasts, and inventory data to support sound buying decisions and identify cost-saving opportunities
• Communicate effectively across purchasing, operations, sales, and warehouse teams to improve execution and service levels
• Evaluate deals based on margin potential, inventory risk, shelf life, and alignment with OpCo customer demand
• Build and maintain supplier relationships that surface buying opportunities before they reach the broader market
• Support new vendor evaluation and onboarding in coordination with the Merchandising team
• Contribute to the development of purchasing best practices and standard operating procedures as the hub network expands

Competencies

• Strong interpersonal skills; great communicator and relationship builder
• Results focused; drives change management and continuous improvement
• Decision maker able to prioritize and weigh both short- and long-term goals
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Practical, data-informed decision-maker who can balance cost, service, and inventory considerations
• Self-motivated with a growth mindset and a willingness to take on new responsibilities as the role expands
• Clear and effective communicator, both written and verbal, with the ability to work across functions and locations
• Comfortable working in a collaborative warehouse environment and building relationships across departments
• Comfortable making decisions and standing behind them in a fast-moving environment
• Quickly gain proficiency navigating ERP systems, reporting tools, and purchasing platforms

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, or a related field. MBA or equivalent preferred
• 2+ years of experience in purchasing, buying, or procurement in a distribution, wholesale, or food service environment
• Experience with inventory replenishment, demand planning, or supply chain operations
• Familiarity with ERP systems and purchasing workflows
• Solid understanding of margins, cost structures, and inventory productivity metrics
• Experience in a multi-site, decentralized, or hub-and-spoke distribution environment is preferred
• Existing relationships with commodity traders and wholesalers that typically offer spot buy opportunities is preferred
• Proficient PC skills in CRM and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems- Produce Pro, Microsoft Office (particularly Excel), and common E Mail systems