Food Purchasing Associate - Avendra Strategic Accounts Universal

Job Responsibilities

• Create and Place PO orders.
• Source and gain approval for substitute products for out of stocks.
• Investigate and work with distributors to resolve delivery, out of stock, or other challenges.
• Adjust par levels seasonally and order products for catering events as they take place.
• Gain feedback from Universal about stock level changes such as seasonality, new products, discontinued products.
• Request credits from distributors for missing/damaged products.
• Obtain QA approval for all new products before they are ordered such as approving spec sheets, nutritional?s, and allergens.
• Communicate proactively and effectively with client stakeholders and suppliers.
• Build and foster relationships and effectively partner with internal stakeholders and external suppliers.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, collaborating with respective ordering locations.
• Aid suppliers with vendor set-up with Universal.
• Perform data/spend analysis to identify opportunities for cost reduction/inventory management.
• Act as liaison with vendors to ensure organizational needs are met.

Secondary Responsibilities

• Travel (up to 10%) to client meetings & events as needed.
• Provide support for additional projects as needed.

Primary Competencies

• Planning and Organization
• Project Management
• Problem Solving & Analytical Skills
• Effective Written and Oral Communications
• Conflict Management
• Relationship Building
• Influencing Others (P3 and above)

Qualifications

• Ability to learn and use ordering platform(s).
• Proficient in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Strong multitasking capabilities, project management skills, and the ability to work effectively in an environment with tight deadlines.
• Self-directed and able to work independently but also able to work collaboratively with various representatives of the client and with other Avendra associates.
• Proven ability to foster and maintain working relationships, internally and externally.
• Excels in a fast-paced environment and can quickly pivot to meet schedules.
• The ability to use ?good business judgement? and balance being an advocate for the client?s interests, Avendra and its contracted suppliers.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and organizational skills.
• Highly comfortable with firm confidentiality requirements.

About Aramark

• Aramark is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by applicable law.
• We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth.
• Learn more about working here at http://www.aramarkcareers.com or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.