Produce Commodity Buyer

Coordinate the procurement of commodity items, based on category plans, for the entire enterprise. Procure the best quality at the best costs possible. Develop relationships with growers & shippers to leverage Kroger's volume as a strategic advantage. Assist in identifying opportunities for divisions including new items, packaging, and innovation. Demonstrate the company's core values of respect, honesty, integrity, diversity, inclusion and safety.

• Place orders in itrade with shippers; populate and submit orders to shippers and price according to plans
• Review for proper itrade status; facilitate reconciliation of pricing issues, and amounts as needed per RASC
• Manage and populate weekly ad lid requests with prices upon receiving costs and volume commitments from shippers
• Collaborates with category management on current and future markets, including vendor pricing and supplier selection
• Manage and resolves distribution center rejections
• Assist with the commitment to grow commodity products
• Manage and resolve distribution center Over, Short, and Damage claims
• Make changes to PO's based on either replenishment or supplier initiated changes
• Provide post business hour support for orders loading; make changes to resolve any issues
• Provide weekend and holiday support on the placement of orders, including tasks related to assisting trucks to get loaded should issues arise
• Manage company produce initiatives and policies
• Maintain positive trade relations with suppliers
• Leverage the company's size and execution to create enterprise advantages
• Manage, mentor, train, and support the team, including collaboration with Replenishment and Supply Chain teams
• Must be able to perform the essential job functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation

Minimum

• 2+ years prior produce knowledge gained from procurement, merchandising, or education
• Knowledge of Excel, Word, and Powerpoint
• Excellent analytical and follow-up skills
• Strong communication skills

Desired

• Consolidated Replenishment Buyer (CRB)
• Working knowledge of retail environment, as well as consumer and competitive market dynamics
• Produce Region Specialist
• Produce Consolidation Manager