Purchasing Specialist

REGIONAL FOOD BANK OF OKLAHOMA•Oklahoma City, OK

8d•$55,000 - $60,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Purchasing Specialist is accountable for sourcing, negotiating and managing procurement activities that ensure consistent access to food products and supplies essential to program delivery. This role applies market knowledge, purchasing best practices and sound judgment to inform supplier selection, pricing decisions and purchasing execution aligned with budgetary guidelines. The position advances inventory stability and risk reduction by reviewing purchasing and inventory data, coordinating with internal teams and regional counterparts, and ensuring required supply levels for USDA and disaster response programs. Through effective vendor relationships, accurate documentation and process discipline, the Purchasing Specialist contributes to efficient purchasing operations and reliable supply continuity.

Requirements

Earning a bachelor’s degree or gaining at least 4 years of relevant experience in purchasing or supply chain management or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
Proven knowledge of ERP systems such as Microsoft Dynamics, SAP (SAP ERP), Oracle EBS, AS400, or similar platforms.
Experience with contracts management and vendor relationship building.
Proven negotiation skills with a track record of securing favorable terms with suppliers.
Valid driver’s license with a driving record that meets organizational standards.
Proficiency in common office applications and database software (e.g., Microsoft Office)
Ability to learn and adjust to new technologies.
Ability to complete a background check, motor vehicle record review, drug screening and physical assessment as required for the role.
Commitment to advancing the mission of ending hunger.

Nice To Haves

Working in the food industry.
Working with disaster response organizations or non-profit organizations.
Professional certification in procurement, supply chain or a related field (such as CPSM, CSCP or CPP) preferred.

Responsibilities

Manage the acquisition of food items to meet the organization's goal of meeting program and operational needs.
Develop and establish consistent bidding and price check processes to drive performance metrics.
Create, review, and adjust purchase orders as needed.
Negotiate prices and agreements with suppliers.
Conduct market research to identify new sourcing opportunities and stay informed about industry trends.
Review and approve invoices for Point of Sale (POS), Value-Added Products (VAP) and freight.
Implement strategies to control costs and aid organizational goals, and report out on performance metrics regularly.
Work closely with the Procurement Manager and Director of Supply Chain on budget and strategy alignment.
Cultivate relationships with partners and vendors in the food industry.
Evaluate supplier relationships and performance and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
Maximize relationships to generate awareness, monetary support and volunteerism.
Participate in activities involving logistics, inventory management and product distribution.
Ensure an accurate product acquisition database and department reporting is maintained.
Examine inventory data to identify trends and opportunities to improve turnover and decrease carrying costs.
Work with Tulsa counterparts to identify opportunities for sharing or trading inventory for mutual benefit of the Oklahoma Food Banks.
Maintain accurate records of purchase orders, contracts, pricing agreements and supplier documentation.
Generate progress reports for Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma management.
Ensure inventory for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) meets a 2.5-month on-hand supply.
Work with Tulsa counterpart to recognize what The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) products are coming in statewide and adjust the purchasing strategy accordingly.
During disaster response, assist the Disaster Liaison Officer to establish needs and procure necessary resources.
Partner with local, regional, and national organizations to develop disaster relief strategies, maintain relationships with associated organizations and represent the Regional Food Bank in disaster relief meetings.
Other Duties as Assigned Duties and responsibilities may be added or changed at any time at the discretion of your supervisor, formally or informally, either verbally or in writing.