Company description

Maplebrook Farm has established itself as a premier producer of handmade artisanal cheeses in the Green Mountains of Vermont, distributing unparalleled quality cheeses throughout the country.

Job description

Here’s a tailored Procurement Manager job description for Maplebrook Farm Cheese Company in North Bennington, Vermont:

Job Title: Procurement Manager
Location: North Bennington, Vermont
Company: Maplebrook Farm Cheese Company
Department: Procurement/Supply Chain
Reports to: Operations Director

Job Summary:
Maplebrook Farm, a leading producer of artisan cheeses, is seeking a Procurement Manager to oversee the sourcing of high-quality ingredients, packaging materials, and other operational supplies. This role ensures the timely and cost-effective procurement of goods while maintaining the highest standards of quality and sustainability. The Procurement Manager will build strong supplier relationships and contribute to the company’s mission of crafting premium cheeses for our customers.

Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Procurement:
Develop and execute procurement strategies to secure high-quality milk, ingredients, packaging, and other materials essential for cheese production.
Monitor market trends and seasonal fluctuations to optimize purchasing decisions and control costs.
Collaborate with production and quality assurance teams to ensure procurement aligns with Maplebrook Farm’s standards and goals.
Supplier Management:
Source and vet local and regional suppliers to maintain Maplebrook’s commitment to sustainability and support of local agriculture.
Negotiate supplier agreements focusing on quality, cost savings, and long-term partnerships.
Maintain relationships with existing suppliers while continuously seeking new opportunities to enhance the supply chain.
Operational Procurement:
Oversee daily procurement operations, including purchase orders, inventory management, and stock level optimization.
Ensure the timely delivery of goods to prevent production delays and maintain inventory accuracy.
Address and resolve any supply chain disruptions or quality issues promptly.
Compliance and Risk Management:
Ensure procurement practices comply with food safety regulations, certifications, and ethical sourcing standards.
Mitigate risks related to supply shortages or price volatility through effective planning and supplier diversification.
Maintain detailed records for audits and ensure compliance with Maplebrook’s quality assurance standards.
Team Management and Collaboration:
Collaborate with the production, quality control, and logistics teams to ensure procurement aligns with operational needs.
Lead and mentor procurement staff, fostering a culture of efficiency and innovation.
Drive process improvements to enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness in procurement operations.

Skills and Qualifications:
Essential Skills:
Strong negotiation skills with experience in sourcing agricultural products or food-grade materials.
Knowledge of supply chain management in the food production industry, particularly dairy.
Familiarity with inventory management systems and procurement software.
Analytical mindset with the ability to assess supplier performance and market conditions.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
5+ years of procurement experience, preferably in food production or agriculture.
Familiarity with food safety certifications and compliance requirements (e.g., HACCP, SQF, USDA standards).
Professional certifications (e.g., CPSM or CIPS) are a plus.

Personal Attributes:
Passion for sustainable and local sourcing practices.
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
Attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining the highest quality standards.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a focus on continuous improvement.

Compensation

this position is: salaried, $50,000 - $75,000

Application instructions

Deadline

December 31, 2024