Purchasing Buyer

Purchasing Buyer 1000 Darden Center Dr, Orlando FL 32837 JOB OVERVIEW :

The Purchasing Buyer works with the Purchasing Manager to develop and implement strategies to purchase various capital equipment and services for new restaurant development, remodels, replenishment and maintenance services.

Focusing on the acquisition of products and services that represent medium to high levels of risk and value, the Purchasing Buyer evaluates options / scenarios, agreements, develops recommendations and support Manager in gaining approval from brand leadership.

The Purchasing Buyer uses his / her knowledge of business and commodity markets to negotiate agreements with suppliers. He / she may lead teams

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

Identifies potential suppliers by leveraging available resources (e.g., knowledge of supplier capabilities, industry benchmarking data);

makes recommendations to department manager(s)

Prepares and executes Requests for Information (RFIs) & Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for one or more products / services requested by Brands;

uses analysis provided by Indirect Sourcing to actively negotiate agreements with suppliers

• Track, manage, implement & report all related projects and cost savings initiatives.
• Focuses efforts on identifying and recommending products and / or services requiring low to medium levels of spend and / or complexity
• Ensure supplier agreements, pricing and information files are current and relevant. Proactively track contract expiration dates and work with department managers to address as needed
• Identifies opportunities for cost savings / cost avoidance for the product category
• Conducts cost formulation and develops component cost break-outs
• Assist in maintaining effective supplier relationships
• Demonstrates an understanding of one or more product categories / industries
• Attends Supplier Meetings in order to understand capabilities, participate in business reviews, and monitor supplier financial health
• Conducts supplier performance reviews with the input of other members of the Purchasing Team, Facilities, Development, Culinary, TQ and Brand Operators through the use of informal (e.

g., observation) and formal (e.g., vendor ratings) metrics

• Presents ideas for product innovations (for further exploration)
• Supports resolution strategy for less critical crisis management efforts; assists Purchasing Manager(s) / Director(s) with critical items
• Addresses vendor product quality or service issues; supports other functions (e.g., culinary operations, facilities) in vendor escalation issues as needed
• With manager(s) guidance source new products and services to support business needs of brands
• Coordinates products / services for promotions and tests relevant to a product category
• Interfaces directly and frequently with Development / Facilities, Culinary, Marketing, Concept Support, and Operations, at all levels, to support product needs
• Systematically seeks out opportunities with minority businesses
• Development and maintenance of department reports including SKU management, supplier category spend, supplier performance tracking, etc.

REQUIRED TECHNICAL SKILLS :

• Minimum of five years or relevant experience
• Experience with purchasing one or more categories of products or services
• General understanding of industry-related markets
• Experience with purchasing / buying negotiation tactics
• Understanding of business / business acumen
• Knowledge and familiarity with the use of software / information systems

REQUIRED EDUCATION :

Bachelor of Science degree required.

OTHER KEY QUALIFICATIONS :

• Strong analytical skills
• Unique combination of results orientation with ability to build strong interpersonal relations.
• Excellent organization, prioritization and time management skills.
• Proven ability to lead meetings and teams effectively. Demonstrated success in presenting in large group settings.
• Strong track record associated with negotiation, problem solving and conflict management.
• Team player, loyalty and professionalism.
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task in a fast paced environment

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE :

People management experience preferred but not require

Hi! I'm Mary, your personal Darden Restaurant Support Center job assistant. Thank you for your interest. We are looking for great talent for many types of jobs.

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