Team Lead

Team Lead, PurchasingReports to Director of ProcurementJob DescriptionProvides overall leadership to the Purchasing Team. Champions the principles of Quality, Scratch, Theatre, Service, and Love while being responsible for all aspects of daily operations including profitability, pricing, buying, expense control, inventory management, costing, promotions, regulatory compliance, and special projects as assigned. Can lead and develop all areas of team members such as associate team lead and retail buyers. Accountable for development, hiring, corrective actions and separations. All L'Oca Quality Market retail jobs must be performed in accordance with team and store Standard Operating Procedures. All L'Oca Quality Market retail jobs require ensuring a positive company image by providing courteous, friendly, and excellent service to team members and customers always. Team members must be prepared and able to perform the duties inherent in other Team Member job descriptions. All positions must strive to support L'Oca Quality Market core values, goals, programs, and initiatives while adhering to all applicable Food Safety and regulatory duties required in the department.Primary ResponsibilitiesAdhere to the core values of being TRUSTWORTHY, TEAM PLAYER and HAPPY TO HELPChampion the principles of QUALITY, SCRATCH, THEATRE, SERVICE, and LOVE in attitude, workmanship, and operationsSupport the efforts of all coworkers towards meeting our core values and company principlesBe a leader in your own role and assist others in their growth, development, and sense of community with the teamLook for opportunities to provide exceptional and meaningful experiences with customers and coworkersComply with all company policies and Employee Code of ConductReport to management any situation or condition that jeopardizes the safety, welfare, liability, or integrity of any business location's staff, guests, the business location itself, or the companyProtect the legal and financial welfare of the companyMaintain the utmost legal, moral, and ethical standards with all customers, vendors, and coworkersSupport all company goals and objectivesDesign, plan and implement sourcing and purchasing strategyMaintain supplier collaboration, manufactures and internal departments to ensure correct inventory levelCreate and execute promotional programs in conjunction with suppliers and vendorsMaintain product database utilizing IRP and POS systemBuild and maintain relationship with suppliers and vendors (Internal and external)Negotiate lower pricingSearch and source potential suppliers and vendorsMeet and exceed purchasing financial targetsHiring and training new and existing staffAnalyze margin reportProvide reports for upper managementPrimary DutiesLead the end-to-end supply chain — from Category Management, procurement and logistics to inventory and distribution ensuring seamless operations that support L'OCA's growth and brand standards.Provide Leadership & Direction to the procurement team to manage daily workflows and responsibilities while providing hands on training & development to the team.Drive strategic sourcing initiatives to secure reliable, high-quality suppliers aligned with L'OCA's values, negotiating competitive terms and long-term partnerships while harnessing cost savings in key areas including smallwares, supplies, & retail stockOversee import, customs, and transportation logistics to ensure products arrive on time, on budget, and in compliance with all regulations.Optimize inventory management and warehouse operations to balance supply with business needs, minimizing waste while maintaining product availability.Collaborate cross-functionally with Marketing, Finance, and Store Operations to align supply chain strategies with business goals and seasonal initiatives.Monitor and analyze KPIs to identify improvement opportunities, enhance efficiency, and drive cost savings across all supply chain functions.Ensure regulatory and trade compliance while implementing best practices in procurement and logistics. Ensure compliance with company policies related to regulatory agency visitsManage and develop supplier relationships, conduct performance reviews, and identify new sourcing opportunities to support innovation and scalability.Job SkillsAdvanced knowledge of products, pricing, merchandising, and inventory managementSustains exceptional level of knowledge and awareness of relevant competitors and industry trendsExcellent interpersonal, motivational, team building, and customer relationship skillsCapable of teaching others in a positive and constructive mannerAdvanced knowledge of regulatory and safety policies and proceduresProficient mathematical skills for assessing financial performance, monitoring profitability, and managing inventoryDemonstrated decision-making ability, leadership skills, and ability to prioritize and delegateProficiency with Microsoft Office, Microsoft Teams, Emails, and operations-related applicationsWhat you bring3-5 years of hands-on experience with expertise in procurement, logistics, and inventory planning.3+ years of leadership experience, guiding and developing cross-functional teams in fast-moving environments.Post-secondary education in Supply Chain Management, Business, Logistics, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).A proven track record of driving efficiency, improving processes, and strengthening supplier partnerships.Experience in Retail Grocery Supply chain and/or Food Service is a strong asset.Advanced skills in Microsoft Office (especially Excel); familiarity with ERP or supply chain management systems is a plus.Physical Requirements / Working ConditionsMust be able to lift 50 poundsHand use single grasping, fine manipulation, pushing and pullingWork requires the following motions bending, twisting, squatting and reachingExposure to approved Health Canada/CFIA cleaning chemicalsExposure to temperatures 90 degrees FahrenheitAbility to work in a wet and cold environmentAbility to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays if neededAbility to use tools and equipment, such aspallet jacks, and other heavy machineryNoteThe purpose of this document is to provide a general summary of essential responsibilities for the position and is not meant as an exhaustive list. This document does not reflect all job duties or requirements for every position. Requirements build as one progresses through the job levels, so any job duties required at a lower level may be required at the higher level in addition to the duties listed for that higher level. Duties, assignments, and other responsibilities may differ for similar positions based on business conditions, departmental or geographic location, and/or needs for the particular position. An individual must demonstrate successful performance in their current position before being considered for promotion. In addition, in order to promote into a higher-level position, a business need for the promotion must exist and the candidate must be considered the most qualified person for the new position. Completion of certain milestones such as obtaining an advanced degree or certification, time in current position, or developing skills to perform at the higher-level role do not guarantee a promotion.At L'Oca Quality Market, we provide a fair and equal employment opportunity for all Team Members and candidates regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, marital status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic. L'OCA Quality Market hires and promotes individuals solely based on qualifications for the position to be filled and business needs.