Meat, Deli, and Seafood Buyer

Job Description

Position Title: Meat, Deli, and Seafood Buyer

Location: Mississauga, ON

Employment: Full time / Permanent

Department: Procurement and Merchandising

About us:

JDass is a leading retail organization committed to delivering exceptional grocery experiences to our customers. We pride ourselves on offering a diverse selection of high-quality fresh products, sourced with integrity and care. We are currently seeking a seasoned and results-driven Meat, Deli, and Seafood Buyer to join our Procurement and Merchandising team.

Position Overview:

The Meat, Deli, and Seafood Buyer are entrusted with the strategic procurement and category management of fresh and processed meat, deli products, and seafood across the organization's retail or wholesale channels. This role demands a high level of expertise in sourcing, vendor negotiation, quality assurance, and inventory optimization, with a strong emphasis on regulatory compliance and consumer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Sourcing and Procurement

• Develop and execute category-specific procurement strategies aligned with business objectives.

• Identify, evaluate, and negotiate with domestic and international suppliers to secure optimal pricing, quality, and delivery terms.
• Monitor commodity markets, seasonal trends, and global supply chain dynamics to inform purchasing decisions.

• Inventory and Supply Chain Management

• Maintain optimal inventory levels to support sales forecasts while minimizing shrinkage and spoilage.

• Collaborate with logistics, distribution, and store operations to ensure timely and accurate product flow.
• Implement best practices for stock rotation, traceability, and cold chain integrity.

• Quality Assurance and Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure all products meet internal quality standards and comply with applicable food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP, CFIA, FDA).

• Conduct supplier audits and product evaluations to uphold consistency and safety.
• Address and resolve quality-related issues in coordination with suppliers and internal stakeholders.

• Vendor Relationship Management

• Cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships with key suppliers and producers.

• Monitor vendor performance using established KPIs and initiate corrective actions as necessary.
• Negotiate promotional programs, rebates, and cost-saving initiatives.

• Category Development and Merchandising Support

• Collaborate with merchandising and marketing teams to support product launches, seasonal programs, and promotional campaigns.

• Analyze sales data, consumer insights, and competitive benchmarks to refine assortment and pricing strategies.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends, innovations, and consumer preferences within the protein and deli categories.

Qualifications and Experiences:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, Supply Chain Management, Food Science, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in food procurement, with a focus on meat, deli, or seafood categories.
• Demonstrated expertise in vendor negotiation, cost management, and category strategy.
• Proficiency in inventory management tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Comprehensive knowledge of food safety standards, regulatory frameworks, and product handling protocols.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and interpersonal communication skills.

Working Conditions:

• Primarily office-based with periodic travel to supplier facilities, distribution centers, and retail locations.
• May require early morning or weekend availability to coordinate with suppliers and manage perishable inventory.

J_Dass