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, ensuring compliance with college purchasing guidelines. This full-time position involves collaboration with various department and campus partners to maintain the availability of products and supplies necessary for smooth operations.

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 (independently or in cooperation with the appropriate manager) 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

• Experience in purchasing and supplier management, preferably in a culinary or food service environment.
• Strong negotiation skills and experience in contract management.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and standards.
• Ability to manage inventory and conduct audits effectively.
• Strong analytical skills to identify cost-saving opportunities and enhance efficiency.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with sustainable purchasing practices.
• Familiarity with menu management systems.
• Previous supervisory or training experience.

Benefits

• $1,000 sign-on bonus valid through December 31, 2024.
• Comprehensive benefits program including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.