Purchasing Manager

Job Title:         Purchasing Manager    

Market Title:    Supply Chain

Location:         Wittenberg WI - on site

Status:             Regular Full-Time 

FLSA:               Exempt

JOB SUMMARY: 

As a key member of our leadership team, the Purchasing Manager partners with multiple functions in the organization to ensure materials, ingredients, and supplies reflect the highest standards of quality and reliability.  Additionally, this role compiles data, analyzes trends, and oversees procurement records to ensure operational excellence and efficiency throughout the organization.  This is an onsite role with occasional flexibility for remote work. If you’re a relationship builder with a strong eye for detail and a passion for quality, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a company that values integrity, respect and collaboration.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  

These duties are not meant to be all-inclusive, and other duties may be assigned.

• Plan, organize, direct, and oversee all procurement activities.
• Develop and maintain purchasing systems, procedures, and vendor evaluation methods to ensure quality, cost, and timely delivery.
• Analyze raw meat markets and delivery conditions to forecast material availability and prepare market analysis reports.
• Create and maintain a Vendor Operating Manual with procedures and compliance requirements.
• Establish and manage procurement reporting systems and performance metrics.
• Source, recruit, and maintain relationships with suppliers that meet company quality and ethical standards.
• Negotiate contracts, prepare and issue purchase orders and change notices, and ensure policy compliance.
• Oversee all stages of commodity procurement from purchase intent through delivery and disposal of surplus materials.
• Verify product specifications, pricing, and invoices; resolve discrepancies and defective goods issues with vendors or quality teams.
• Expedite deliveries and ensure timely supplier payments in coordination with Accounts Payable.
• Maintain effective vendor partnerships and continuous process improvements.
• Minimal travel required.

Skills:

To perform this position successfully, an individual must demonstrate regular, predictable attendance and be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The competencies listed below are representative of the knowledge and skill required. 

• Problem Solving: Identifies and resolves issues promptly using sound analysis.
• Communication: Speaks and writes clearly; presents effectively in groups; listens actively.
• Interpersonal Skills: Maintains confidentiality, openness, and adaptability to new ideas.
• Planning & Organization: Prioritizes tasks, manages time efficiently, and sets realistic goals.
• Quality Focus: Ensures accuracy and thoroughness in all work.
• Adaptability: Responds effectively to change, competing demands, and unexpected challenges.
• Dependability: Reliable attendance, follows directions, and seeks feedback for improvement.
• Safety Awareness: Promotes and practices safe work procedures.
• Leadership: Sets clear expectations, holds others accountable, and leads cross-functional teams.
• Project Management: Uses formal project management methods to meet goals.
• Self-Motivation: Proactive and passionate about continuous improvement.
• Sales & Negotiation: Builds consensus and support for projects and initiatives.
• Decision-Making: Applies structured decision-making tools confidently.
• Technology: Proficient in ERP systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Collaboration: Works effectively across teams; serves as mentor or team leader.
• Time Management: Efficiently manages own and others’ time.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field.
• Proven experience in procurement, supply chain management, or a related field.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:  

• Proven experience as a Purchasing Manager or Buyer with strong sourcing and vendor management skills.
• Solid knowledge of supply chain management and procurement processes.
• Excellent analytical, technical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong negotiation, conflict resolution, and multitasking skills.
• Demonstrated discretion and sound judgment in decision-making.

NUESKE’S CULTURE ELEMENTS:

At Nueske’s, we share a few basic Culture Elements.  By design, they are simple and straightforward and provide the foundation for how we do business and treat each other.

• Communicate Effectively
• Be Caring 
• Be Engaged
• Be Quality Minded
• Be Responsible
• Share the Why

Nueske’s Applewood Smoked Meats provides equal opportunity in all our employment practices to all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other category protected by federal, state, and local laws. This policy applies to all aspects of the employment relationship, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, promotion, transfer, disciplinary action, layoff, return from layoff, training, and social, and recreational programs. All such employment decisions will be made based upon the merits of the employee/application and without unlawfully discriminating on any prohibited basis.