What are the responsibilities and job description for the Commodities Manager position at Rural King Supply?
Overview:
One thing our customers appreciate is our unique shopping experience, complete with complimentary popcorn and coffee. It's just one way we show our appreciation for their support.
At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We offer growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a people-first environment where dedicated individuals come together to serve rural communities passionately. Join us, and you'll find not just a job but a chance to grow professionally, contribute meaningfully, and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.
Qualifications:
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
About us
Rural King is America’s Farm and Home Store, providing essentials to the communities we serve. With a wide array of necessities ranging from food and feed to farm and home products, Rural King serves over 150 locations across 17 states and is constantly expanding. Our annual sales exceed $2.5 Billion, and our heart beats in Mattoon, IL, home to our corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store.
One thing our customers appreciate is our unique shopping experience, complete with complimentary popcorn and coffee. It's just one way we show our appreciation for their support.
At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We offer growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a people-first environment where dedicated individuals come together to serve rural communities passionately. Join us, and you'll find not just a job but a chance to grow professionally, contribute meaningfully, and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.
How we reward you
401(k) plan that provides a 100% match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% of the next 2%
Healthcare plans to support your needs
Virtual doctor visits
Access to Centers of Excellence with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic’s Complex Care Program
15% Associate Discount
Dave Ramsey’s SmartDollar Program
Associate Assistance Program
RK Cares Associate Hardship Program
24/7 Chaplaincy Services
Company paid YMCA Family Membership
Responsibilities:
What You’ll do
The Commodities Manager is responsible for driving cost reductions and improving margin performance across the company’s highest-volume and most impactful commodity items. This role plays a critical part in sourcing strategy, supplier negotiations, and risk mitigation by ensuring the company secures competitive pricing, reliable supply, and efficient logistics solutions.
- Lead sourcing and procurement activities for a portfolio of commodity-based products, negotiating approximately 80–120 items annually.
- Drive cost savings initiatives by identifying pricing opportunities, leveraging market trends, and executing effective negotiation strategies.
- Serve as a key contributor to margin improvement by managing cost structures and influencing purchasing decisions.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers while leading complex negotiations and managing challenging conversations.
- Identify and qualify alternative suppliers to diversify the supply base, reduce risk, and improve supply chain resilience.
- Analyze market conditions, commodity trends, and supplier performance to inform purchasing strategies.
- Optimize freight and logistics strategies to ensure cost-effective and timely delivery of commodity items.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with operations, finance, and leadership teams to align procurement strategies with business goals.
- Monitor supplier compliance, quality, and service levels, addressing issues proactively.
Essential Qualities for Success
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Finance, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
- 3 years of experience in procurement, sourcing, or commodity buying.
- Proven track record of successful cost reduction and supplier negotiations.
- Strong analytical and financial acumen with the ability to impact margin performance.
- Excellent negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to manage difficult conversations and influence stakeholders.
- Experience sourcing commodity-based or highly commoditized products preferred.
- Knowledge of logistics and freight optimization strategies is a plus.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended durations.
- Capability to lift 15 pounds periodically.
- Able to navigate and access all facilities.
- Skill to effectively communicate verbally with others, both in-person and via electronic devices.
- Close vision for computer-related tasks.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
The pay range for this position is $71,000- $90,000 annualized and is bonus eligible. Exact compensation is determined by factors such as relevant geographic location, education, certifications, experience, job level, shift, and organizational needs. To learn more about our benefits, review here https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:14539c15-191a-4b77-9c13-f6ccfce10094.
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