Buyer
About the role
At Valley, purchasing isn’t just administrative work, it’s a critical function that connects suppliers, sales, planning, and logistics into one reliable supply chain. We’re looking for a detail-driven, proactive Buyer who can take ownership of purchasing activities from start to finish. Someone who doesn’t just place orders, but actively thinks ahead anticipating demand, preventing shortages, and solving problems before they reach the customer.
Responsibilities
- Create and manage purchase orders based on forecasts, replenishment plans, and customer demand.
- Ensure supplier order acknowledgments are received, recorded, and tracked accurately.
- Expedite orders and work with suppliers to prevent stockouts and maintain high service levels.
- Proactively resolve supply issues by partnering with Sales, Planning, Logistics, and suppliers.
- Maintain appropriate inventory levels to optimize turns and reduce obsolete or excess stock.
- Identify slow-moving or excess inventory and collaborate with Sales to reduce waste and improve sell-through.
- Support demand changes such as promotions, customer events, new business, or lost business adjustments.
- Maintain accurate vendor, item, and pricing data in the ERP system.
- Aid in qualifying, onboarding, and setting up new suppliers.
- Request and analyze supplier quotes, bids, and RFP/RFQ responses to determine best total value.
- Negotiate basic supplier terms and conditions where applicable.
- Investigate and resolve PO, receipt, and invoice discrepancies to ensure timely payment and capture of discounts.
- Provide supplier performance feedback and data to support annual reviews and continuous improvement.
- Use problem-solving and continuous improvement methods to improve purchasing processes and resolve root causes of recurring issues.
Requirements
- Associate degree or equivalent experience in supply chain, purchasing, or procurement.
- 1–3 years of purchasing or buying experience (distribution/logistics experience preferred).
- Strong understanding of replenishment planning, purchasing workflows, and supplier coordination.
- Ability to manage conflict, solve problems, and communicate effectively (written, verbal, and virtual).
- Basic knowledge of finance, contracts, and supplier negotiations.
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ERP or purchasing systems.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating across teams.
Work Environment
Collaborative role working closely with Sales, Planning, Logistics, and suppliers.
Fast-paced environment requiring strong prioritization and attention to detail.
Office-based role with occasional interaction with warehouse or supplier operations.
Focus on accuracy, communication, and timely execution of purchasing activities.
Schedule
Standard business hours (Monday–Friday).
Occasional flexibility may be required based on supply chain needs or urgent procurement issues.