Purchasing Manager

College Of St Benedict - Saint Joseph, MN

Full-time - Mid Level

Saint Joseph, MN

Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations

About the position

The Purchasing Manager at the College of Saint Benedict is responsible for managing product and equipment purchases for the Culinary Services Department. This role ensures compliance with college purchasing guidelines while collaborating with various department and campus partners to maintain the availability of products and supplies necessary for smooth operations. The position requires strong negotiation skills, supplier relationship management, and the ability to lead and mentor a team.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage relationships with food, beverage, and supply vendors.
• Source and purchase food products, equipment, and other supplies.
• Negotiate contracts and pricing agreements to obtain the best value for the college.
• Ensure all purchases meet the quality standards of the culinary services department.
• Assist in selection and/or conclusion of vendor contracts and agreements.
• Communicate with vendors to identify new products.
• Review and verify invoices for accuracy and submit for payment.
• Oversee the inventory of food, beverages, and dining supplies.
• Maintain inventory that accurately reflects the food production schedule.
• Monitor stock levels and ensure timely reordering of items.
• Conduct regular inventory audits to track usage and minimize waste.
• Ensure proper storage and handling of perishable items to prevent spoilage.
• Work closely with campus partners to develop and negotiate contracts and rebates.
• Monitor expenditures and implement cost-saving measures.
• Ensure compliance with allocated budgets and recommend adjustments when necessary.
• Prepare reports on inventory levels, supplier performance, and procurement trends.
• Use data to identify cost-saving opportunities and enhance efficiency.
• Ensure menu management system reflects current pricing.
• Promote and support sustainable purchasing practices, including sourcing locally and reducing waste.
• Ensure that all purchases comply with food safety regulations and standards (e.g., USDA, FDA).
• Work with the culinary team to implement food safety practices in storage and handling including proper rotation and items put away in accordance with HAACP standards.
• Keep updated on relevant laws, regulations, and trends in food safety and sustainable sourcing.
• Oversee that overall kitchen storage space meets the health code and safety standards, as well as oversee the daily appearance and upkeep of the receiving areas, walk-in coolers and freezers, storage locations and dumpster areas.
• Coordinate all culinary equipment orders, repairs, deliveries, installs and maintenance with campus partners.
• Maintain accurate records regarding equipment inventory, repairs, and warranty information.
• Work closely with the culinary and operations teams to ensure seamless communication and efficient operations.
• Supervise, mentor and train the Assistant - Purchasing and Receiving Coordinator and employees receiving deliveries from vendors, assuring quality and accurate product orders have been received.
• Train approved drivers to safely operate lift equipment and catering vehicles.
• Coordinate product and item delivery to other culinary departments.
• Support the back and front of house with daily operations of the culinary department, and provide additional support to Catering as needed.

Requirements

• High school diploma required.
• Minimum two years of purchasing experience in a high-volume setting, preferably in foodservice or hospitality.
• Two years of supervisory experience required; four years preferred.
• Strong negotiation and supplier relationship management skills.
• Proven leadership abilities.
• Ability to represent Culinary Services professionally in all interactions with customers, clients, vendors, and staff.
• Excellent oral, written communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to plan, organize, solve problems, meet deadlines, and multitask.
• Proficient in reading and analyzing financial reports.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with menu management software preferred.
• ServSafe Certification preferred; must obtain within six months of employment.
• Maintain valid driver's license; must meet college defensive driving requirements.
• Flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• High level of competence, discretion, and confidentiality required.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with menu management software.
• ServSafe Certification.

Benefits

• $1,000 sign-on bonus valid through December 31, 2024.