Japanese Bilingual Purchasing Assistant Manager

$60,000 - $70,000/Yr

Staffmark - Torrance, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Torrance, CA

Administrative and Support Services

About the position

The Purchasing Assistant Manager is responsible for developing and executing purchasing strategies that align with the company's objectives. This role involves managing vendor relationships, overseeing inventory levels, and leading the purchasing team to ensure efficient procurement processes. The position requires bilingual proficiency in English and Japanese, along with strong analytical skills and experience in purchasing or supply chain management.

Responsibilities

• Aid in developing and executing the overall purchasing strategy to ensure it meets business objectives, including periodic cost analyses as needed by the Company President or General Manager.
• Determine key performance indicators for essential purchasing functions by analyzing major expense categories and setting savings objectives.
• Stay informed about market trends and movements to guide purchasing decisions.
• Conduct research to remain updated on compliance regulations.
• Collaborate closely with Sales and Marketing teams on new product development and packaging requirements.
• Support the budgeting process and partner with the General Manager to maintain departmental spending within financial limits.
• Request and review necessary forms (such as requisitions and purchase orders) for accuracy, ensuring pricing and margins align with company goals.
• Proactively identify and engage new co-packers and vendors to maintain or reduce costs of goods and services.
• Collaborate with the Purchasing Manager on the approval of new vendor selections.
• Oversee co-packers, suppliers, and blenders to guarantee the quality of products and services while keeping costs and delivery schedules competitive.
• Manage vendor inventory levels, receipts, and compliance with product labeling and packaging standards as set by the company.
• Conduct annual performance evaluations of vendors and report findings to the Purchasing Manager.
• Analyze market trends to inform future inventory forecasting needs.
• Ensure adequate inventory levels are maintained for production purposes.
• Supervise adjustments made by Purchasing Coordinators and report any discrepancies to the Purchasing Manager.
• Work cross-functionally to optimize inventory utilization, enhance turnover, and minimize shrinkage.
• Oversee the physical inventory process.
• Provide daily leadership to the Purchasing Team.
• Create and maintain documentation of purchasing policies and procedures, providing training as necessary.
• Distribute and prioritize work to foster continuous improvement and efficiency.
• Verify and approve payroll timecards.
• Evaluate the performance of direct reports.
• Address employee concerns and resolve issues with the help of Human Resources for performance-related matters, including disciplinary actions.
• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, in a professional manner.
• Perform additional duties and projects as assigned.
• Pursue ongoing improvements and more cost-effective methods in work processes.
• Maintain professionalism while handling sensitive information.
• Uphold high ethical standards within the workplace.
• Follow all company policies and procedures as outlined in the employee handbook.
• Ensure a clean and safe working environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year institution, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Japanese is required.
• Strong analytical capabilities are essential.
• A minimum of 5-7 years in purchasing, supply chain, procurement, or production is necessary.
• Experience in food or beverage ingredients is required.
• Familiarity with organic, gluten-free, kosher, and non-GMO standards is necessary.
• Proficiency in QuickBooks is preferred.
• A minimum of 3-4 years in a supervisory capacity is required.
• Valid California Driver's License.
• Passport.

Nice-to-haves

• Proficiency in QuickBooks is preferred.

Benefits

• paid time off
• paid holidays
• medical, dental, and vision plans
• pre-tax savings plans
• pre-tax parking and commuter plans
• supplemental health and welfare plans
• retirement savings plan
• employee assistance program
• pet insurance
• short-term incentives