What are the responsibilities and job description for the Purchasing Manager position at Ippolito International, LP?
JOB DESCRIPTION The Purchasing Manager is responsible for managing the procurement of materials, supplies, packaging, and services essential to the company’s operations. This role ensures that purchasing activities align with company standards, cost objectives, and operational needs while maintaining strong relationships with vendors and supporting efficiency in the grower, shipper, and packer environment.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Develop, implement, and manage purchasing strategies that support company goals and seasonal demands in fresh produce operations. • Negotiate pricing, contracts, and service agreements with vendors and suppliers to ensure the highest value for the company. • Manage procurement of key operational items including packaging, raw materials, equipment, maintenance supplies, and office/operational needs. • Work closely with Operations, Production, Quality Assurance, and Logistics to ensure timely availability of supplies and materials. • Maintain strong supplier relationships while identifying and developing new vendor partnerships to support cost savings and innovation. • Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with the warehouse and harvest team to ensure adequate stock without over-purchasing. • Review purchase orders for accuracy, approvals, and compliance with company policies. • Analyze market trends in produce packaging, materials, and supplies to forecast and manage cost fluctuations. • Develop and maintain a vendor database, contracts, and purchasing records. • Ensure compliance with food safety, regulatory, and sustainability requirements in all purchasing decisions. • Provide leadership to the purchasing team, including training, development, and performance management.
SKILL / QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS • Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Agriculture, or related field (preferred). • 5 years of purchasing or procurement experience, preferably in the fresh produce, agriculture, or food manufacturing industry. • Strong negotiation and vendor management skills. 2 | P a g e 9/11/2025 • Knowledge of produce packaging, agricultural materials, and food safety requirements (HACCP, SQF, etc.) a plus. • Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills. • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and ERP/purchasing systems. • Bilingual English/Spanish a plus. • Strong business and financial acumen. • Ability to build collaborative relationships across departments. • Problem-solving and decision-making under tight deadlines. • Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities