Myers Produce is a woman-owned regional distributor and trucking company operating out of hubs in Western Massachusetts and Northern Vermont.  We offer distribution, freight, and warehousing services to farmers and producers throughout our region.  We source from within the Northeast as a rule, and the majority of our sources are certified organic.  We carry fresh produce, fresh fruit, eggs, meat, cheese, grains, flowers, and added value products.  Our customers are predominantly independent retail stores and restaurants in New York City, the Greater Boston Area, the Cape, and the Hudson Valley.

We are seeking an individual to fill the Purchasing Manager role on our team.  The Purchasing Manager reports to our Business Development Director, manages our Purchasing Coordinator, and works in concert with our Sales Team and Operations Team.  Their schedule is Monday-Friday 8am-4pm.  Responsibilities include:

• Maintain clear communication and a healthy relationship with Myers' roster of nearly 150 vendors, including farmers, producers, and distributors.
• Communicate with vendors consistently regarding production plans, product availability, price negotiations, sales and promotions, sales opportunities, and customer feedback
• Evaluate and compare ongoing vendor product availability and pricing
• Select products for our list, using historical relationships and data as well as current evaluation
• Revise our product list twice a week, with changes in availability, sourcing, and pricing
• Track movement and manage restock of our warehouse inventory, including up to 300 fresh, frozen, and shelf-stable items
• Work with our bookkeeper to ensure that vendor bills align with Myers purchase orders
• Respond to potential vendor inquiries, specifically for suppliers of fresh perishable products
• Participate in weekly Sales & Purchasing Meetings
• Participate in weekly Purchasing Meetings
• Coordinate with our Sales Team to align our vendor supply with our customer demand
• Coordinate with our Operations Team regarding scheduling, routes, and quality control
• Coordinate with our Core Management Team regarding progress towards our company goals
• Assist our Purchasing Coordinator with day-to-day Purchasing work
• Visit our Hatfield warehouse periodically to meet with the team and to evaluate product in person

The ideal candidate:

• Has at least 2 years experience in produce-focused food distribution or farm work
• Has at least 1 year experience in food service (restaurant, retail, etc)
• Has an established understanding of crop production and seasonality in the Northeast
• Has experience working with Quickbooks Online
• Has experience working with Google Workspace and Excel
• Has experience working with Mailchimp
• Is meticulously detail-oriented
• Is an excellent communicator
• Is able to work independently
• Is calm and creative in a fast-paced environment
• Is fully engaged with our mission
• Is familiar with Vermont, the Pioneer Valley, and surrounding areas

Commitment:

• We are looking to fill this position by June 2024
• One-year commitment required.  Two-year commitment preferred.