Corporate Buyer Fruits & Vegetables presso Ajinomoto Foods North America

The Fruit & Vegetable Corporate Buyer is responsible for managing the procurement of various produce items in the category. This includes ensuring supply continuity, cost management lead and optimization, supplier performance management, and alignment with company standards and cross-functional objectives.

1. Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management

· Source and manage suppliers of various fruit & vegetable products, ensuring alignment with quality, sustainability, and cost goals.

· Maintain supplier data, capabilities, and offerings in procurement systems on connection with company strategic goals

· Lead sourcing initiatives including RFPs, supplier selection, contract negotiations and ensure supplier compliance with terms and conditions.

· Stay informed on category market trends, pricing, and adjust strategies to mitigate risk and capture value

2. Category & Inventory Management

· Reconcile contracts against blanket orders in coordination with cross functional teams and plant buyers as well as conducting root cause analysis for variances in cost and volume

· Monitor and manage aging inventory, raw material transfers, and disposition strategies

· Act as the primary category contact for plant personnel and support production continuity

3. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Project Execution

· Represent procurement in cross-functional teams, supporting initiatives in R&D, operations, and finance as well as externally in category forums and procurement events.

· Assist in new material sourcing, formula transitions, and plant-to-plant transfers.

· Lead the category annual budgeting process and material standards reviews.

4. Cost Optimization & Process Improvement

· Drive cost reduction initiatives using a multi-functional team approach.

· Optimize supplier base and SKU portfolio to improve efficiency and reduce complexity.

· Identify and implement process improvements across the procurement lifecycle.

5. Risk Management & Compliance

· Ensure adherence to food safety, regulatory, and sustainability standards.

· Respond effectively to supply disruptions and crises, maintaining business continuity.

· Maintain accurate procurement data and ensure compliance with internal controls.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Food Science, Supply Chain, or related field.
• 3–5 years of procurement experience, preferably in protein or food manufacturing.
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience in inventory management and procurement operations
• Range of Pay - $75,000 - $85,000, annually. Plus, annual bonus.