ABOUT THE COMPANY

Gourmet International Ltd. imports & distributes fine quality specialty foods & confections throughout the United States. Our valued customers include gourmet retailers, quality grocers, delicatessens, gift shops, gift basket companies, web retailers & more.

Gourmet International began its journey almost 50 years ago when Horst and Erika Nitzsche immigrated to Michigan from Germany. Today, Gourmet International is the exclusive importer of over 35 European brands ranging from savory to sweet (1700-1800 SKUs). Over the past thirty years, we have expanded our warehouse four times, and recently relocated to a new and larger space to better accommodate our growing business. With a new 125,000 square foot warehouse designed to provide efficient service, and a brand-new website, we strive to consistently exceed our customers’ expectations in all areas of service.

At Gourmet International, we treat each other with respect, we care, we think of the team first and we go above and beyond for the greater good of Gourmet.

Do you have a passion for food? Are you looking for the opportunity to make an impact on a family-owned business and work in a state-of-the art facility? You belong here! Are you excited for what is ahead? We are too!

How you will spend your day:

The Purchasing Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting business operations by efficiently ordering products and materials at Gourmet International. They are responsible for maintaining strong relationships with suppliers, vendors, and wholesalers, ensuring timely delivery of goods while adhering to the company's brand standards. Key responsibilities include:

· Collaborate with the Director of Purchasing to manage the purchasing department effectively.

· Conduct thorough research to identify vendors’ information gaps to ensure compliance and enhance profitability and efficiency.

· Maintain positive and professional relationships with vendors, overseeing their activities to ensure quality and timely delivery.

· Review, update and/or create vendor items and contractual updates to needed details, requirements and contracts as needed.

· Utilize quarterly and annual data to assess purchasing needs and manage inventory effectively.

· Manage item records, images, and help maintain accurate purchase records.

· Coordinate with warehouse staff to reconcile deliveries with purchase orders, identifying any discrepancies.

· Assist in data analytics on strategic line review processes to identify advantageous item trends and onboard new products.

Our ideal candidate will have:

· Bachelor’s degree in business administration, supply chain management, or a related field preferred.

· Previous experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain management is advantageous.

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and Word.

· Familiarity with NetSuite is a plus.

· Strong understanding of food safety regulations and industry standards.

· Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

· Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and quality.

· Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

· Proficiency in data analysis, vendor and inventory management.

· Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.

· Team player with the capacity to collaborate across departments.

· Problem-solving skills to address procurement challenges.

· Adaptability to changing market conditions and business needs.

Opportunity – Why work for Gourmet International?

· Our Company is growing, established and focused on continued improvement.

· Opportunity to lead and grow financial function for the company. Make your imprint and have the opportunity to learn and grow financial competencies and processes within the company.

· Collaborative environment

· Gourmet International is considered a good place to work. Culture is relationship and family focused.

· We are “foodies” and have a passion for great food.

· Diversified customer base well-positioned for profitable growth.

· Be part of a dynamic, passionate leadership team.

Note: This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position. It is not exhaustive or comprehensive. Other duties may be assigned based on business needs.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $43,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Application Question(s):

• This position is in office Monday - Thursday 8-5:30 and Friday 8-12

Ability to Commute:

• Grand Rapids, MI (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Grand Rapids, MI: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person