Strategic Sourcing Buyer – MRO

Schwan's Company • Marshall, MN

9d

About The Position

At CJ Schwan’s, we don’t just make food — we help create moments that matter. From kids devouring pizza after soccer practice, to students laughing over dumplings in a cafeteria, to families enjoying pie during the holidays, our team members play an important role in bringing those everyday moments to life. Our portfolio includes iconic pizzas, global flavors and timeless desserts from brands like Red Baron®, bibigo®, Tony’s®, Big Daddy’s®, Freschetta®, Pagoda®, Edwards® and Mrs. Smith’s®. Enjoyed in homes, schools, restaurants and just about everywhere people shop and eat, our products reflect a commitment to quality, innovation and the power of food to bring people together. We are seeking a Strategic Sourcing Buyer to join our corporate team! In this role, you will drive results in service contract management across the organization, partnering with FSQ, Sanitation, Marketing Services, HR, and Temporary Recruiting. If you are a skilled negotiator, excel at building strong supplier relationships, and are motivated by delivering cost savings, reliability, and operational improvements, this is the role for you.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience in a Buyer or Strategic Sourcing role).
• 2+ years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain management.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with procurement systems a plus.
• Developed PC skills including Microsoft Office Suite and Outlook.
• Proficiency in data generation from electronic systems with analytical skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing via reports and business correspondence.
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers and stakeholders.
• Ability to perform analysis associated with assigned categories such as TCO (Total Cost of Ownership), supplier margin evaluation and discounts.
• Ability to analyze supplier logistics structure and optimize accordingly.
• The ability to manage multiple assignments, meet deadlines, achieve objectives, manage confidential information, and work cooperatively in groups.
• Comprehension and ability to utilize hedge instruments to protect risk.

Nice To Haves

• CPIM or CSCP certification preferred, but not required, but willing to obtain with company support.
• Certified Supply Chain Professional or Certified Planning and Inventory Management preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead negotiations with key suppliers to secure favorable pricing, terms, warranties, and contract protections.
• Manage capital equipment purchases, maintenance and repair parts, and service agreements to support plant operations.
• Partner with cross-functional teams (engineering, maintenance, manufacturing, R&D, sales, marketing) to align purchasing strategies with business needs.
• Monitor categories for pricing trends, supply risks, and opportunities, delivering insights and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Oversee supplier performance, ensuring continuous improvement, cost savings, and innovation.
• Own the full contract lifecycle—including renewals, performance tracking, and compliance management.
• Troubleshoot and resolve quality, cost, and delivery (QCD) issues with internal and external partners.
• Drive results in price, rate, and risk management while maximizing supplier value and reliability.

Benefits

• Beyond base salary, we offer a competitive Total Rewards package focusing on your overall well-being.
• We are proud to offer a strong foundation of health benefits, retirement and financial wellbeing, time off programs, wellbeing support programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees