Purchasing Manager/Supply Chain Manager

Location: New Orleans, LA

Pay: $70,000 – $80,000

Purpose of the Position

The Purchasing Manager/Supply Chain Manager oversees the procurement and inventory of raw ingredients and packaging for production. This role includes improving productivity, quality, and operational efficiency while coordinating and resolving issues related to products. The ideal candidate will rely on extensive experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals aligned with the company’s vision and mission.

Responsibilities & Duties

• Maintain ordering of raw ingredients and packaging materials for production.
• Strong experience in procurement (raw ingredients and packaging) including commodities, planning and inventory.
• Communicate, schedule, coordinate, and follow up on delivery of all incoming materials, including intercompany transfers.
• Input and confirm purchase orders in Great Plains ERP system, including pricing, estimated arrival times, freight, and distribution.
• Execute established inventory stock levels, reorder amounts, and lead times for production.
• Manage reports on perishables, packaging, inventory, and obsolete materials to maintain optimal levels.
• Maintain and update vendor files, pricing notifications, and contract changes.
• Support departments including Plant Operations, Corporate Purchasing, Accounting, and Sales.
• Plan future material needs based on projections and historical data.
• Assist in developing automation requirements for procurement and logistics software.
• Assist in creating training materials and lesson plans for ERP module expansion.

Academic Qualifications

Essential: College degree in a related field.

Desirable: Certification in Supply Chain Management.

Work Experience & Skills

• 5–7 years of buying or equivalent experience in procurement and/or supply chain management.
• Proven track record in controlling costs and building supplier relationships.
• High competency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word).
• Experience working within a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to proactively address challenges and achieve results.
• Strong negotiation skills for manufacturing and service agreements.
• Knowledge of materials, products, and commodity markets.
• Familiarity with modern procurement and purchasing techniques.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, organizational, and presentation skills.