VP of Purchasing

Overview: A established distribution and supply company is seeking a VP of Purchasing to lead its procurement, vendor management, and departmental operations. This senior leader will join the executive team, reporting directly to the President, and will play a pivotal role in driving profitability, optimizing inventory, and shaping strategic marketing and sales initiatives that support long-term growth.

What you'll do: Oversee all aspects of inventory procurement and vendor negotiations to maximize profitability and cash flow. Supervise, train, coach, and evaluate department staff, ensuring proper staffing levels and performance management. Negotiate pricing and programs with suppliers while managing proprietary stock dispositions and maintaining strict service-level standards. Serve as a key point of contact for customer accounts and suppliers, ensuring professional and timely communication. Develop and refine departmental procedures to enhance operational efficiency and productivity. Oversee secondary operational units such as internal logistics/freight control and specialized merchandising teams as needed. Direct marketing and promotional initiatives, including trade shows, digital campaigns, product launches, and sales incentives, while maximizing supplier financial participation. Lead strategic bid analyses for major prospective and existing accounts, collaborating with sales, category management, and brand development teams to grow private-label or exclusive product lines. Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements across procurement operations. Perform other related duties as assigned by executive leadership.

Required qualifications: Proven experience managing procurement, vendor relations, and inventory control in a leadership capacity. Demonstrated ability to lead and develop departmental staff, including hiring, training, and performance management. Strong negotiation skills with suppliers and vendors to secure favorable pricing and programs. Experience overseeing marketing and promotional strategies, including trade shows and digital campaigns. Ability to collaborate cross-functionally with sales, category management, and brand development teams. Strong understanding of safety standards and regulatory compliance within procurement operations. Experience reporting to or working closely with senior executive leadership, such as a President or senior leadership team. Why this roleThis position offers the opportunity to serve on the senior leadership team, directly influence company profitability, and lead strategic procurement and marketing initiatives that drive growth.