Buyer

D Otani Produce Inc•Honolulu, HI

17h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Produce Buyer is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, purchasing, and pricing produce and related products to meet company operational needs, quality standards, and margin objectives. This role manages supplier relationships, monitors market trends, ensures timely procurement, supervises purchasing staff, and collaborates with operations, warehouse, and sales teams to maintain inventory levels and product quality.

Requirements

Minimum 2–4 years experience in procurement, produce sourcing, or related field.
Strong negotiation, analytical, and decision-making skills.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship management skills.
Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple suppliers.
Demonstrated ability to handle multiple demands and supervise others.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and procurement software.
Understanding of inventory management, purchasing procedures, and margin management.
Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and analytical thinking.
Must be 18 years of age or older.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of produce quality standards, seasonal availability, and industry trends preferred.
Knowledge of food safety standards, FSMA regulations, and vendor compliance preferred.
Knowledge of organic and commercial growing practices preferred.
Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Agriculture, or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers based on quality, price, reliability, and company standards.
Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms to secure the best value while maintaining margins.
Purchase produce following company policies (local, organic, seasonal, quantities).
Research new or alternative sources of supply.
Track orders to ensure timely delivery and coordinate with warehouse and operations teams.
Receive produce deliveries or oversee receiving, following established procedures.
Arrange transportation or storage of purchased products.
Enter and update PLUs, new products, and price changes accurately in POS systems.
Price produce to achieve margin and sales goals while maintaining a competitive image.
Assist customers with produce questions, special orders, samples, and preparation suggestions.
Inspect incoming produce for quality, freshness, and compliance with company standards.
Work with QA/Food Safety to ensure compliance with FSMA and internal quality standards.
Maintain inventory records and participate in quarterly or requested inventory counts.
Monitor stock levels to prevent shortages or excess inventory.
Get credits from suppliers for returned, damaged, or spoiled goods and coordinate returns or disposal.
Maintain prep and storage areas in clean, orderly condition meeting health department standards.
Review departmental financial reports (sales, margin) with Operations Manager and recommend corrective action.
Maintain accurate records of purchases, contracts, and supplier communications.
Prepare reports on procurement trends, vendor performance, and cost analysis.
Collaborate with sales, operations, warehouse, and other departments to anticipate product needs and support operational goals.
Attend buyers’ meetings and departmental meetings.
Participate in setting sales and margin goals for the department.
Identify new product opportunities and source innovative produce items.
Participate in vendor visits, trade shows, and supplier meetings.
Support cost reduction initiatives while maintaining quality standards.
Provide guidance and support to junior procurement staff as needed.
Perform other duties assigned by the Operations Manager.