The Deli/Bakery Buyer is responsible for purchasing frozen, dry grocery, and fresh deli bakery items to maintain optimal inventory levels, product freshness, and profitability. This role supports store operations and customer satisfaction by upholding high standards in product selection, pricing, and service. The position involves collaborating with all Alex Lee companies, ensuring competitive pricing and alignment with ALI’s retail brand strategy. The Buyer manages all assigned deli and bakery categories with a focus on inventory control and market competitiveness, directly contributing to the overall success of our deli/bakery operations.

Responsibilities:

• Purchase frozen, dry grocery, and fresh deli bakery items to ensure freshness and inventory control.

• Achieve targeted sales, gross profit margins, annual financial objectives, and service standards by implementing effective management practices.

• Coordinate with merchandisers and customers to manage ad items, projections, shipping, and communicate important updates on product and delivery changes.

• Manage daily customer orders to maximize satisfaction and service levels.

• Work collaboratively with internal departments and contribute to the budgeting process, ensuring that established performance objectives are consistently met.

• Maintain appropriate inventory levels, monitor inventory turnover, and purchase advertised or flyer merchandise as necessary.

• Track Days on Hand, Out of Stock Rates, and Salvage figures to ensure annual performance targets are achieved.

• Perform account reconciliation and oversee bill backs, paybacks, recalls, and excess credit reports to ensure sustained profitability.

• Use analytical skills to secure competitive pricing based on market conditions.

• Develop innovative market strategies to increase sales and profitability.

• Notify suppliers of MDI's product quality standard, set expectations, and maintain consistent, positive communication with vendors.

• Assists with deli and bakery activities related to food show events.

• Perform additional responsibilities as directed. 

Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree in business or comparable professional experience.

• 3–5 years’ experience as a Fresh or Frozen Buyer.

• Experienced in department operations and fresh product purchasing.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Proficient in computerized purchasing systems and Microsoft Office applications.

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