Purchasing and Inventory Associate

The Purchasing and Inventory Associate supports all procurement and inventory functions within our organization. This role is responsible for bulk and on demand purchasing, maintains accurate par levels, forecasts supply needs based on upcoming events, develops and maintains vendor relationships, and ensures inventory accuracy across multiple locations. Reporting to the Sr. Manager, Logistics and Facilities, this role is integral to product development, warehouse and logistical operations, and equipment management for all lines of business.

This position offers a competitive compensation range of $55,000–$65,000 annually, based on relevant skills, experience, and qualifications. In addition, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, participation in a bonus program, and eligibility for employee stock ownership (ESOP).

Purchasing and Procurement

• Performs bulk and on demand purchasing for food, beverage, equipment, and consumables.
• Generate purchase orders, track fulfillment, and ensure timely delivery.
• Maintain and adjust par levels based on seasonal trends, forecasted event volume, and historical data.
• Maintain product pricing and provide periodic product cost analysis reports.
• Coordinate closely with Operations, Warehouse, and event teams to ensure supply availability.
• Cross departmental collaboration with product development team and service execution team on product selection.

Inventory Management

• Monitor inventory levels daily and reconcile discrepancies.
• Track receiving processes and ensure all items are accurately documented.
• Conduct scheduled cycle counts and maintain inventory accuracy standards.
• Support asset tracking for equipment using company tools.
• Develop and maintain strong vendor partnerships.
• Create and manage vendor scorecards for pricing, quality, performance, and delivery metrics.
• Participate in the pricing and contracts negotiations with suppliers.
• Track vendor performance, pricing changes, product catalogs, and contract terms.

Analytics and Reporting

• Produce purchasing and inventory reports using Excel and company systems.
• Forecast supply needs using historical trends, event projections, and seasonal patterns.
• Data management includes normalization, data cleansing, transformation, validation, and data governance.

• 5+ years of purchasing or procurement experience.
• 2+ years’ experience within food & beverage, catering, restaurant or a related business.
• Intermediate or higher knowledge of Excel including tables, formulas, functions, formatting, presentation, analysis, and reporting.
• Possesses strong computer skills with demonstrated proficiency in standard business software packages and productivity tools (e.g., Microsoft Office, Asana or Slack, cloud data storage).
• Experience with warehouse/asset management/purchasing tools such as Asset Panda and CRM software such as Fresh Sales.
• Strong interpersonal, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively, verbally, and in writing.
• A positive attitude, willingness to learn from others, and ability to work in a team-oriented environment.
• Strong organizational skills, ability to prioritize tasks, and proactively meet tight deadlines.
• Ability to travel to tradeshow events 2-4 times a year.