Senior Buyer

Senior Buyer Express Employment Professionals is seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Senior Buyer for a reputable company in the Sacramento area. This position focuses on the tactical procurement of food and non-food materials required to produce high-quality products. The Senior Buyer will ensure the timely purchasing, cost management, and inventory control of assigned categories while supporting the company’s production and operational goals. This role will report to the Controller. Key Responsibilities Procurement & Inventory Management Execute day-to-day purchasing activities, including placing and managing purchase orders for food and non-food materials. Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with warehouse teams to maintain optimal stock levels, preventing shortages or overstock. Assist in developing cost-saving initiatives and improving procurement processes. Vendor & Supplier Management Maintain strong working relationships with suppliers to ensure quality, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Evaluate supplier performance, including delivery, quality, and service metrics, and address issues proactively. Negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules with vendors to support production needs. Compliance & Quality Assurance Ensure that all purchases comply with company standards, FDA, HACCP, and BRC food safety regulations. Collaborate with the Quality Assurance team to address supplier quality issues and implement corrective actions. Market Research & Cost Analysis Conduct market research to identify cost-saving opportunities and alternative sourcing options. Analyze pricing trends and provide recommendations for procurement strategies to meet production demands. Interdepartmental Collaboration Work closely with production, sales, and account management teams to align purchasing with business needs. Communicate product availability, pricing updates, and potential substitutions to stakeholders. Qualifications Proven experience as a Buyer, Purchasing Assistant, Procurement Specialist, or similar role in the manufacturing industry. Strong understanding of procurement best practices and inventory management processes. Excellent negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills. Proficiency in inventory management systems and MS Office Suite (especially Excel). Knowledge of food safety regulations, including FDA, HACCP, and BRC standards is a preferred. Ability to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment with high attention to detail.