Procurement Specialist

Job Description

On behalf of our client, a fast-growing CPG manufacturer of better-for-you snacks and premium baked goods distributed across North America, we are seeking a Procurement Specialist. The organization prides itself on quality, creativity, and speed-to-market, operating in a collaborative, fast-paced environment to delight consumers year-round.<br><strong>Role Overview</strong><br>The Procurement Specialist supports two facilities (Vaughan and Mississauga) and is responsible for purchasing ingredients, materials, components, services, and supplies at optimal cost, quality, and delivery timelines while maintaining lean inventory levels. Success in this role requires strong supplier relationship management, cross-functional collaboration, high professionalism, and organizational rigor. The ideal candidate thrives in a dynamic setting, balances strategic planning with hands-on execution, and brings a keen eye for detail.<br><strong>Responsibilities</strong><br><ul><li>Source and purchase products; negotiate pricing, margins, MOQs, and delivery terms with vendors.<br></li><li>Partner with Production Planning to coordinate just-in-time delivery of perishable ingredients and component stock to support on-time production.<br></li><li>Procure raw materials, packaging, services, and supplies at the best total cost while meeting quality and specification requirements.<br></li><li>Continuously review sales forecasts and on-hand inventory; validate assumptions and adjust purchasing plans to support fulfillment, inventory control, and cash flow.<br></li><li>Utilize the company's ERP to track and manage purchase orders, material status, and timelines.<br></li><li>Participate in daily production meetings; communicate expected deliveries and any risks to schedules.<br></li><li>Manage vendor invoices and collaborate with Finance to ensure timely processing.<br></li><li>Coordinate with suppliers, Receiving, and QA to ensure compliance with food safety and regulatory requirements.<br></li><li>Lead and support inventory counts; assist Finance with variance analysis and root cause investigations.<br></li><li>Prepare and review contracts, RFPs, proposals, vendor agreements, and pricing to ensure compliance with specifications and food-safe manufacturing standards.<br></li><li>Establish evaluation frameworks for vendor quotations; qualify suppliers and maintain a preferred vendor list.<br></li><li>Develop vendor scorecards with KPIs for quality, delivery, service, and compliance; track performance and drive corrective actions.<br></li><li>Address and resolve internal and external inquiries; facilitate cross-functional alignment and approvals as needed.<br></li><li>Coordinate donation or disposal of surplus materials when appropriate.<br></li><li>Perform miscellaneous projects and other duties as assigned.<br></li></ul><strong>Qualifications</strong><br><ul><li>Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain, or a related field.<br></li><li>5+ years of purchasing experience within a food manufacturing environment.<br></li><li>Proficient in end-to-end procurement processes: research, negotiation, planning, and ordering.<br></li><li>Hands-on experience with ERP purchasing modules; familiarity with SYSPRO is an asset.<br></li><li>Strong MS Office skills (Excel, Word); advanced Excel preferred.<br></li><li>Excellent oral and written communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.<br></li><li>Proven ability to handle confidential information professionally and ethically.<br></li><li>High accuracy, diligence, and attention to detail.<br></li><li>Strong analytical thinking with solid planning, prioritization, and execution capabilities.<br></li><li>Tenacious cost-reduction mindset aligned with delivering high-quality, great-tasting products and achieving company objectives. <br></li></ul><strong>What's Offered</strong><br><ul><li>Competitive salary with performance-based bonuses.<br></li><li>Comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, and vision, plus company-sponsored RRSP.<br></li><li>Professional development and growth opportunities.<br></li><li>A collaborative, energetic, and entrepreneurial team culture.<br></li></ul>To apply or learn more, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining relevant experience in food manufacturing procurement.<br>@@j<br>CAB0517<br> <br></br><br>