Responsible for procuring product from vendors at the lowest cost consistent with considerations of quality, reliability of source, and urgency of need. Studies market trends, interviews vendors, and recommends sources of supply. Works with various internal business and external partners to streamline how Whole Foods Market sources and transacts these items, focusing on partnership, transparency, integrity, and ease of procurement. Responsible for compiling promotions and communicating quantities to vendors, documenting accurate costs on POs, and implementing new item process. Works directly with suppliers to source products, strengthen overall product mix, and expand product program. Key job responsibilities Executes assigned commodity purchasing plan. Responsible for overseeing procurement and shipment of Produce/Floral items to Whole Foods Distribution Centers. Responsible for upholding quality standards and product specifications on an assigned commodity group. Works with vendor partners to clarify performance expectations, identify potential issues and develop effective resolution strategies. Responsible for accurately pricing purchase orders. Provides consistent market updates and analysis to the Perishable Merchandising team. Networks constantly to identify and nurture relationships with suppliers. Serves as resource for multiple stakeholders both internal and external. Partners with the logistics team to ensure on time arrival to our Distribution Centers. Responsible for covering for other commodity groups within the team as needed. Responsible for analyzing available supply vs network wide demand. Partners with Retail Vendor Managers to execute planned assortment, purchasing agreements and programs. Skills: Understands and applies buyer/procurement concepts, principles and practices. Able to evaluate and certify suppliers and producers. Develops and applies buying/procurement practices that meet company and customer expectations, ensure quality and maximize savings and efficiencies. Demonstrates strong interpersonal communication skills and high levels of tact, diplomacy, and confidentiality. Tailors communication approach to specific situations and audiences. Able to negotiate mutually beneficial supplier/producer arrangements, terms and conditions. Applies analytical skills to evaluate and interpret purchasing, procurement, contract, delivery, quality, pricing and other issues. Create spreadsheets, charts and reports that contain relevant projections and performance data that can be clearly understood by diverse audiences. Possess clear understanding of WFM and supported region / stores business objectives. Has passion for Organics, Fair Trade and the Natural Foods industry. Applies a customer-focused sensibility when analyzing business prospects and/or performing ongoing work activities. Team-player with a positive attitude and comfortable with ambiguity. Works effectively with others, in groups, in cross-functional settings and with diverse stakeholders internally and externally. Adheres to the WFM principles and core values. Displays strong levels of customer service.