Produce Buyer

PACIFIC COAST FRESH COMPANY•Kent, WA

3d•$65,000 - $85,000•Onsite

About The Position

Pacific Coast Fresh Company is a local, family-owned produce distributor that has proudly served our Pacific Northwest retail, wholesale and food service customers since 1977. We are now one of the largest independent produce distributors in the Northwest with distribution centers in Portland, Oregon and Seattle, Washington. We are currently seeking an experienced Buyer for our Seattle (Kent), Washington office. As a member of our Buying team, this position is responsible for identifying and procuring conventional and organic product for our Retail, Wholesale, and Food Service customers. We're looking for someone who is passionate about sourcing the best product available, creating mutually beneficial relationships with growers, and working collaboratively with others to create value for our customers and the company.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree and minimum of 3-5 years related job experience
Familiarity and experience with a wide range of produce items, including local and organic product
Knowledge of commodity locations, growing and harvesting practices, packing and repacking, and other produce suppliers, distributers and processors
Strong communication and relationship building skills and the ability to work effectively with individuals at all levels of the organization
Proficiency in MS Office products, with emphasis in Excel
Ability to speak and write in English
Proven Business Acumen
Problem Solving - Demonstrated skill identifying and resolving problems in a timely manner; gathering and analyzing information skillfully; developing alternative solutions; working effectively in group problem solving situation
Judgment - Includes appropriate people in decision making process and asks for help when needed
Professionalism - Approaches others in a professional manner; reacts well under pressure; treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; accepts responsibility for own actions; follows through on commitments
Ethics - Inspires the trust of others; works ethically and with integrity; maintains confidentiality; upholds organizational values

Responsibilities

Establish and maintain consistent contact with growers and suppliers.
Explore sourcing alternatives and new products, partnering with sales and service managers to introduce at least 10 new items to sales every 6 months.
Recommend and establish strategic sourcing programs specific to customer needs and expectations.
Collaborate with the team to ensure we are obtaining the right products, of the best quality available, at the best cost.
Manage clearance to 1% or better.
Achieve a fill rate of 99% or higher.
Communicate consistently, professionally, and effectively with internal and external partners.
Achieve 99% or greater purchase order accuracy at time of receiving.
Able to work independently and in a team environment.
Present and train sales team on products
Support the Ecommerce initiative.