Procurement Product Associate - Poultry

The Opportunity:

The Raw Material - Procurement Product Associate – Poultry is responsible for sourcing the requested amount of raw material supply for their designated Prepared Meats and Further Process Poultry facilities, based on the weekly requirements set out by Supply Chain. They are accountable for delivering products that meet the required specifications and timelines, while minimizing the overall purchase cost to Maple Leaf. As well, they will assist to the Raw Material Procurement Manager in supporting the MLCF innovation agenda by acting as a subject market expert on new Further Processed Chicken initiatives; providing input on raw material availability and pricing. This role is unique to Maple Leaf and industry as the role focuses on fresh chicken & Turkey procurement. Product Management Associate will provide support through reporting and provide insight on the profitably of key poultry cuts. Provide support cross functionally to promote increased and maintained GP’s in key cuts directed by the Manager – Product Management & Procurement.

Any MLF team member interested in being considered for this role are encouraged to apply online by March 06. Applications received beyond that date are not guaranteed consideration.

Reason for vacancy: Existing Headcount
Compensation: $69, - $, CAD base pay annually plus annual short-term incentive

Snapshot of a Day-in-the-Life:

• Co-ordinate internally produced materials from Fresh Poultry Plants to Prepared Meats Facilities
• Optimize use of raw materials to maximize the full value chain profitability
• Day to day management of raw material from internal and external supply to FP Poultry facilities, ensuring uninterrupted supply of raw materials.
• Forecast raw material requirements
• Process purchase orders, responsible for approx. $ M Dollars in purchases.
• Understand impact to business as associate can purchase up to $ K per transaction.
• Negotiate Pricing for all external purchases, short and long term.
• Make best decisions for Maple Leaf in fast paced environment, to mitigate loses.
• Problem solving, making sure the right teams come together to find solutions.
• Arrange/expedite transport of raw materials for non-FOB activities
• Investigate and action NCRs
• Support Manager Product Management & Procurement on the sourcing, testing and approval of new materials and products
• Monitor, maintain and issue required reporting
• Support Manager Product Management & Procurement in developing a supply base that provides maximum value to Maple Leaf Foods – Minimize outside spot purchases and avoid internal commodity sales by recommending production schedule changes.
• Monitor frozen inventories and communicate issues or opportunities as required
• Track & report supplier fill rate / order conformance
• Investigate and invoice issues in timely manner and ensure the completion of return goods forms and debit/credit memos
• Provide back up coverage for fellow associates
• Perform ongoing system maintenance / planning tools updates
• Track and Balance Maple Leaf Quota transactions
• Provide Product Manager insights and recommendations on key cut profitability and track monthly GPS on selected cuts.

Position Outcomes:

• Demonstrated ability to interact and contribute to purchasing team and other departments in achieving their goals and objectives, act as subject matter expert.
• Demonstrated ability to influence plant operations with raw material improvements and ordering efficiencies.
• Demonstrated ability to improve supplier relationships and resolve conflicts in a timely manner
• Work with Logistics and Plants on delivery windows and timing to insure Plants are not impacted.
• Achievement of yearly objectives and development plans
• Long range plan and visibility to excess or purchase requirements for Chicken raw materials
• Improvement in the storage and retrieval of purchasing information to support internal stakeholders
• Improvement of the purchasing administrative process.
• Timely delivery of raw materials to plant at the right price with the right Quality.

What You’ll Bring:

• 2 to 3 years of experience in the management and / or procurement of a commodity based category
• University degree or Community College diploma in a related field
• Demonstrated purchasing and / or negotiating experience
• Professional purchasing training an asset
• Team player with strong communication and problem solving skills.
• Ability to work in a fast paced, changing environment
• Ability to work independently and drive to solutions.
• Ability to negotiate pricing at fair market values.
• Action oriented with a proven ability to execute in a highly demanding purchasing environment
• Exceptional organizational abilities and time management skills
• Professional attitude and dedication to outstanding quality
• Ability to improve process by proactively seeking and implementing new opportunities
• Ability to understand stakeholder needs and meet those needs in a timely manner
• Superior analytical skills and the ability to quickly and efficiently evaluate large data sets using advanced techniques (pivot tables, logic statements, macro information)
• Superior IT skills including Excel, Word, SAP and BPCS

What We Offer at Maple Leaf Foods:

• Being part of a high-performance, people-focused company that has an inspiring and unique vision to become the most sustainable protein company on earth, and a deep commitment to sustainable protein across North America.
• An inclusive company culture and a work environment that keeps our people safe, rewards excellence, and empowers everyone to learn and contribute their best.
• Competitive Health and Wellness benefits that offer flexibility to meet your individual or family needs, including programs focused on improving mental health and wellbeing. These benefits start on your first day of employment.
• Defined Contribution Pension Plan with company matching that starts on your first day of employment.
• Learning and development opportunities, including workshops, ‘speaker series’ events, and resources that allow you to develop your skills and progress your career.
• Comprehensive tuition reimbursement program that supports continuous learning and development of our team members through investment in eligible degrees, diplomas, professional certification, or trades programs.
• Supporting our deep commitment to community impact, we offer up to two paid days annually to volunteer at a cause of your choice.