Buyer

Job Description

Darwin’s Natural Pet Products (www.darwinspet.com) has a new full-time opportunity for an experienced Buyer to join our Supply Chain team. This position will play a critical role in our procurement process by overseeing the sourcing and purchasing of all raw materials needed for pet food production.

Darwin’s Natural Pet Products located in Tukwila, WA makes high quality, premium raw dog and cat food and delivers it directly to pet owners around the U.S. Our growing business started 17 years ago and is a combination of both manufacturing and direct-to-consumer retailing with a strong online subscription focus. If you like pets and people, we’d like to meet you!

Darwin’s Natural Pet Products offers many benefits to its full-time employees, which currently include:

• 5% Company Contribution to 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan whether you contribute or not!
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Flexible remote working opportunities for select positions
• 6 paid holidays (including 2 flex days)
• Free pet food for your dogs and/or cats monthly
• Company activities include family events, periodic lunches and offsite team building exercises
  
  

Responsibilities:

• Procure all raw materials needed for pet food production Including but not limited to meat, premixes, oils and packaging, while ensuring adherence to quality standards and cost objectives.
• Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers to ensure reliable and timely delivery of raw materials, negotiating pricing, terms, and contracts as needed. Including travel to regional and national conferences.
• Evaluate supplier performance on an ongoing basis, including assessing delivery reliability, product quality, and responsiveness to issues or concerns.
• Generate and issue purchase orders accurately and in a timely manner, verifying specifications, quantities, and delivery schedules.
• Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to ensure alignment on procurement priorities and objectives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, quality assurance, and finance, to ensure seamless coordination and alignment of procurement activities with overall business objectives.
• Utilize inventory management systems, manual or electronic to monitor stock levels and generate reports for analysis and decision-making.
• Ensure our procurement policies and procedures are in compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Participate in strategic planning activities to support the long-term growth and success of the company, providing insights and recommendations related to procurement and inventory management.
• Analyze procurement data and performance metrics to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement.
• Continuously seek opportunities for cost savings, process improvements, and efficiency gains in procurement operations.
• Develop and maintain documentation and records related to procurement activities including purchase orders, contracts, supplier communications, and performance reports, ensuring compliance and transparency.
• Partner closely with the Senior Director to develop and maintain the procurement budget, leveraging in-depth analysis of spending patterns and market dynamics to allocate resources strategically.
• Regularly review budget performance and make adjustments as necessary to align with organizational goals and optimize purchasing efficiency.
  
  

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, business administration, or a related field (preferred but not required).
• Proven experience in procurement, purchasing, or inventory management, preferably in the food manufacturing industry.
  
  

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships with suppliers.
• Proficiency in inventory management systems and ERP software, with experience using Syspro considered a plus.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a keen attention to detail. E2 Level 1 Excel competency- Intermediate skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to effectively work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and industry standards related to procurement and inventory management.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing priorities.
• Commitment to excellence, integrity, and continuous improvement in all aspects of work.
  
  

Additional Qualifications (Buyer-Specific):

• Experience in identifying and qualifying new suppliers to expand the vendor base.
• Proven track record in negotiating favorable pricing, terms, and contracts with suppliers.
• Ability to assess supplier performance and implement strategies for improvement.
• Familiarity with market trends and industry dynamics to make informed procurement decisions.
• Knowledge of import/export regulations and procedures for sourcing materials internationally.
  
  

Darwin's Natural Pet Products is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply. We offer competitive compensation and benefits packages, as well as opportunities for professional growth and development. If you are passionate about pets and have the skills and experience to excel in this role, we invite you to join our team!