Company description

Twin Cities Co-op Partners (TCCP) is the cooperatively owned organization that oversees both Wedge Community Co-ops and Co-op Partners Warehouse. It was formed through a cooperative consolidation in 2017 that united the Wedge and Linden Hills Co-ops into a single business entity.

Wedge Community Co-ops includes two retail grocery stores: Wedge Lyndale and Wedge Linden Hills. These stores focus on providing locally sourced, organic, and sustainable food to the Twin Cities community. They maintain their unique neighborhood identities but operate under the shared Wedge Community Co-ops brand. The retail brands celebrated 50 years in 2025.

Co-op Partners Warehouse (CPW) is the distribution arm of TCCP. It is a USDA-certified organic warehouse and distributor that supplies organic produce, dairy, and grocery items to retail co-ops, natural food stores, and restaurants across the Upper Midwest. CPW plays a vital role in connecting local farms and producers with retail outlets, including the Wedge stores. CPW was founded in 1999.

Job description

Purpose: Buyer 2 is responsible for supporting CPW’s strategic plans and goals by purchasing products from our supplier partners that meet the needs and expectations of our customers. This position is a support function that works closely with Sales, Marketing, Warehouse Operations, and our Supplier Partners. The success of the position will be measured on performance managing inventory, consistently meeting deadlines, category profitability, collaboration and communication with the sales and buying teams. Correct execution of this position will result in consistently achieving all KPI goals within assigned categories.

Reports To: Purchasing Manager

Overview: This is a Full Time, 40 hour per week position based out of CPW’s offices. Typical shifts are Monday through Friday, 8am – 4pm. This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by UFCW 1189.

Essential Functions:

Sourcing and Procurement: Manage inventory and maintain backstock par levels of three or more department categories. Manage orders based on demand and supplier lead times. Identify, evaluate, and establish relationships with suppliers to ensure a diverse and high-quality product range.
Inventory Management: Monitor inventory levels, turnover, and product freshness to minimize waste and optimize stock levels.
Quality Assurance: Collaborate with quality control teams to maintain the highest standards for dairy products, ensuring they meet regulatory and company requirements.
Compliance: Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, certifications, and quality standards in the industry.
Negotiation: Negotiate favorable terms, pricing, and contracts with suppliers while maintaining strong partnerships.
Cost Management: Implement cost-saving strategies without compromising product quality or supplier relationships. Set and maintain base prices for our weekly pricelist.
Market Analysis: Stay abreast of industry trends, market conditions, and competitor activities to make informed purchasing decisions.
Lead Category and Supplier Reviews: Take a leadership role in the New Vendor Committee and Product Review Committee.
Promotional Planning: In collaboration with Sales and Marketing, participate in high velocity promotional planning.
Training: As needed, train new or existing employees in the tasks of this position.
Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including logistics, sales, and finance, to ensure seamless coordination throughout the supply chain.
Promptly resolve all purchasing disputes and billing errors with Account Payables to maintain on-time payments.
Submit and manage credits within vendor timeframes to secure inventory protection.
Weekly price adjustments for the order guide that reflects market conditions and maintains strong margin performance.
Learn, understand and follow the Food Safety Manager’s expectations and assist with maintaining regulatory compliance on all Supplier Partner documentation.
Partner with CPW Logistics Manager for backhaul/delivery opportunities.
Monitor inbound shipment updates and communicate any delays to warehouse operations and the sales team.
Attend and actively participate in scheduled meetings as needed.
Travel requirements less than 10% (trade shows, supplier visits, conferences, customer visits, etc.)

Job Requirements:

Must be 18 years or older. Previous customer service, inside sales and outside sales experience in retail or produce industry preferred.
Experience with Microsoft Office, ERP/WMS
At least 6 years proven experience as a buyer in the industry is preferred.
Analytical mindset with the ability to make data-driven decisions.
Familiarity with industry regulations and quality standards.
Promotes good working relationships by maintaining a courteous and friendly manner.
Attend work regularly and on time as scheduled.
Ability to sit/stand for extended periods of time. Occasional work in cold, wet conditions.
Demonstrated ability to work with customers and coworkers from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Ability to work with TCCP to create an inclusive environment where all are welcomed.

Twin Cities Co-op Partners has an ongoing commitment to the principles and practices of diversity and inclusiveness. Our employment practices are in accordance with the laws that prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, age, marital status, familial status, veteran status, citizenship, pregnancy, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, status with regard to public assistance, or any other status category by applicable law. People with a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences are encouraged to apply.

Compensation

this position is: salaried, $75,000 - $100,000

Application instructions

Deadline

no deadline