Procurement Buyer

Job Title: Procurement Buyer (Packaging & MRO)Department: Supply Chain FLSA Status: Salaried, exempt Reports to: Planning & Procurement ManagerStatus: Onsite, Full timeOUR MISSION:Cleveland Kitchen is on a mission to elevate everyday meals with fresh, flavorful, and gut-healthy fermented foods that empower people to feel good from the inside out.POSITION SUMMARY:Procurement & Supplier ManagementManage sourcing and procurement of packaging materials, MRO supplies, and other indirect goods supporting manufacturing operations.Develop and maintain supplier relationships to ensure quality, service, and supply reliability.Obtain and evaluate supplier quotations, conduct competitive bidding activities, and support vendor negotiations.Identify and qualify new suppliers to improve cost, service, and supply chain resilience.Cost Management & Strategic SourcingMonitor and manage Purchase Price Variance (PPV) performance against budget and standard costs.Support cost reduction initiatives through supplier negotiations, sourcing strategies, and spend analysis.Analyze pricing trends and market conditions to identify savings opportunities and mitigate cost increases.Contribute to long-term sourcing strategies and procurement plans aligned with business growth objectives.Inventory & Material ManagementManage inventory levels for packaging and MRO materials to support production while minimizing excess inventory.Coordinate purchasing activities through ERP/MRP systems to ensure material availability.Oversee off-site inventory balances, third-party warehouse inventory, and material reconciliation activities.Coordinate inventory transfers between facilities, warehouses, and co-manufacturers as required.Monitor supplier lead times and proactively address supply risks and shortages.Product Development & Cross-Functional SupportPartner with R&D, Operations, Quality, and Marketing teams to support new product launches and packaging changes.Source new materials, obtain samples, and coordinate supplier qualifications for development projects.Ensure procurement readiness for new products, packaging transitions, and commercialization activities.Operational ExcellenceCreate and manage purchase orders while tracking supplier performance and delivery commitments.Maintain accurate supplier, pricing, and item master data within ERP/MRP systems.Develop and track KPIs related to cost savings, supplier performance, inventory management, and service levels.Support continuous improvement initiatives across procurement and supply chain processes.QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. REQUIREMENTS:Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, Finance, or a related field.1–5 years of procurement, purchasing, supply chain, or materials management experience in manufacturing, food, beverage, or CPG environments.Experience purchasing packaging materials, MRO supplies, or production-related components is a plus.Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems and inventory management principles.Strong analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and purchasing-related reporting.Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.