Senior Buyer

Chudleigh's Bakery is on the lookout for a Senior Buyer to join our Sweet Purchasing Team.

A SLICE OF THE ROLL
... The Senior Buyer is responsible for building, executing, and continuously improving a lean and cost-effective procurement process that supports the production of finished goods. This role ensures all purchasing activities align with production and inventory requirements while reducing waste and promoting operational efficiency. The Senior Buyer drives supplier performance, optimizes material flow, and contributes to continuous improvement across the supply chain.

The Senior Buyer represents the company in formulating policies and negotiating contracts with suppliers.

Core Responsibilities:

Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Planning

• Develop and execute short- and long-term procurement strategies and processes aligned with operational goals, lean principles, and cost reduction initiatives.
• Ensure a reliable supply of ingredients and materials to meet production schedules and inventory targets.
• Gather data and quotations by reviewing supplier databases, industry sources, product sheets, and conducting supplier interviews to obtain material specifications and pricing. Determine product costs, evaluate profitability, and help set purchasing policies and procedures to support cost-effective operations.
• Analyze market conditions and delivery systems to anticipate material availability and cost fluctuations; provide regular updates and forecasts.

Vendor Management, Cost Optimization, and Negotiation

• Initiate and maintain strong vendor relationships by negotiating competitive purchase order agreements and subcontracts.
• Secure competitive bids for goods and services and evaluate vendors based on quality, cost, reliability, and service.
• Facilitate vendor selection and ongoing reviews to drive cost savings and performance improvements.
• Resolve delivery, quality, or billing issues to ensure mutually beneficial outcomes
• Utilize internal and external feedback to assess procurement effectiveness and propose continuous improvement opportunities.
• Negotiate pricing, incentives, and contract terms to ensure cost-effective, lean, and timely operations.
• Support cost savings initiatives through supplier consolidation, alternative sourcing, and favorable contract terms.

Data, Reporting & Systems Management

• Establish and maintain an accurate vendor database and procurement records to ensure accessibility and compliance.
• Maintain Certificates of Analysis and other required documentation for purchased materials.
• Monitor and report on procurement performance, market conditions, and cost trends.
• Participate in the design, improvement, and utilization of procurement systems and administrative processes.

Compliance and Documentation

• Ensure all procurement activities adhere to internal policies and external regulatory requirements.
• Obtain appropriate authorizations and documentation for all purchasing activities.
• Prepare and submit purchase orders and contracts in compliance with funding and reporting guidelines.

Other Duties

• Stay current with industry and product trends to anticipate the organization's future needs.
• Other duties as assigned.

Must Have Ingredients:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, or a related field

• 6–8 years of relevant procurement experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Skills

• Excellent communication skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

• Strong negotiation skills

• Intermediate to Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel (e.g., spreadsheets, database management)

Extra Flavour

• Dessert Manufacturing or Bakery experience

• PMAC (SCMP) or equivalent purchasing designation

• Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt certification or higher

Physical Demands

This role is primarily performed in an office environment and requires regular use of a computer and other standard office equipment. The employee will frequently sit, stand, walk, use hands and fingers to operate equipment, and communicate clearly. Regular lifting of objects up to 25lbs and occasional lifting of objects up to 50lbs may be required. Vision requirements include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

In compliance with Bill 190, we confirm that this job posting is for an existing vacancy within our organization. Chudleigh's Ltd. is committed to maintaining a diverse and fair workforce. Job applicants with a disability who require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process can contact our People & Culture Team ).