Essential Job Responsibilities:

• Execute all Purchasing functions (inventory management, negotiation with suppliers, schedule and track shipments, and various other activities) for various raw materials to support various other essential oils, oleoresin and raw spices from China.
• Identify and qualify new raw materials, suppliers, and source geographies to drive achievement of Kalsec corporate strategy and plans.
• Gather and report in-depth market information for regional raw material markets and suppliers to ensure Kalsec achieves best in-class sourcing.
• Identify and implement cost and process improvement initiatives.
• Monitor and maintain optimal inventory levels.
• Support Kalsec inventory reporting for Business Units as needed (ie. Scorecards)
• Monitor and coordinate incoming shipments.
• Monitor inventory and coordinate with Kalamazoo Manufacturing Team production schedules.
• Ensure supplier compliance with Kalsec Quality and Procurement requirements including collection of required documentation.
• Address and respond to supplier performance issues.
• Report current and forecasted future market conditions for assigned items.
• Report and monitor crop conditions in growing region (travel may be required).
• Travel as needed to ensure supplier compliance as well as worldwide supply conditions.
• Sample processing for assigned items and others.
• Back up other Procurement roles
• Assisting Director of Procurement in various projects including Make/Buy initiative and others as needed.

Qualifications:

Required

• Bachelor’s degree
• 5+ years relevant Procurement or Food Industry experience
• Solid understanding of negotiation practices
• Inventory control experience
• Bilingual—Chinese and English
• Experience with Food Ingredients

Desired

• Master’s Degree
• Experience as a buyer, preferably in the food industry.
• Extensive and demonstrated understanding of inventory control practices.
• An understanding of technical product specifications in the area of food products and/or spices.
• An understanding of sourcing model analysis. Detail oriented individual is a plus.
• Enthusiasm for engaging with diverse environment and cultures, relationship building and international travel.

Working Conditions:

• Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to travel, meet with suppliers and manufacturing facilities worldwide as required.