Category Buyer

The Distribution Group Inc • Grand Rapids, MI

2h

About The Position

Van Eerden Foodservice is a fourth-generation, family-owned foodservice distributor celebrating over 100 years of Delivering a Great Customer Experience! We believe nothing brings food and families together like sharing a meal. By serving our customers and employees, we allow others to do what the VE family values as an important family tradition – share a meal with friends and family. Rooted in quality and service, we strive to deliver Fresh Ideas, Fresh Products, and Fresh Solutions to our customers each and every day. We are more than a food company - we are a family company treating our team like family and a customer company focusing on Great People, Delivering a Great Customer Experience!

Requirements

• Strong understanding of supply chain concepts
• Multi-tasking skills
• Analytical application
• Communication skills
• Team approach
• Computer skills
• Mathematical aptitude
• 2+ years of experience involved in category management or purchasing preferred

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in a related field is preferred

Responsibilities

• Own day-to-day purchasing decisions by evaluating vendors, items, and inventory needs to ensure product availability and service excellence
• Partner with the Category Managers to analyze, approve, and implement pricing strategies that balance competitiveness, margin, and customer value
• Identify and recommend forward-buy opportunities based on market conditions, demand trends, and inventory strategy
• Hold vendors and brokers accountable through proactive collaboration, performance review, and clear communication
• Evaluate freight options and collaborate cross functionally to optimize cost, service levels, and supply chain efficiency
• Serve as a key communication hub between vendors, brokers, category leadership, and internal teams
• Actively contribute to category strategy by supporting goals, initiatives, and continuous improvement efforts
• Champion product quality by working closely with the Category Managers to ensure consistent standards for all products received and shipped

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Health Savings Accounts
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Tuition reimbursement
• Paid family leave
• Paid vacations
• Paid holidays
• 401k plan with a 50% Company Match

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level