Purchasing Supervisor

Job Description

The Purchasing Supervisor plays a vital role in supporting food service operations within the catering industry by ensuring the timely, cost-effective, and compliant procurement of food, beverages, equipment, and consumables. This position oversees all purchasing activities, manages supplier relationships, and ensures that procured items meet quality, food safety, and regulatory requirements.

In addition to operational responsibilities, the Purchasing Supervisor supports the organization's compliance with ISO standards and food safety management systems by maintaining proper documentation, approved supplier programs, and traceability records. The role requires strong organizational, analytical, and leadership skills, as well as close collaboration with culinary, operations, quality, and finance teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the purchasing department and all procurement activities for catering and food service operations.
• Source, evaluate, and approve suppliers in line with quality standards, food safety requirements, and ISO-compliant procedures.
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, payment terms, and service-level agreements with vendors to ensure best value without compromising quality or safety.
• Monitor inventory levels, consumption patterns, and lead times to maintain optimal stock levels and minimize waste or shortages.
• Implement and continuously improve purchasing policies, procedures, and controls to enhance efficiency and compliance.
• Collaborate with culinary, operations, and quality teams to forecast demand, plan menus, and ensure availability of approved ingredients and materials.
• Ensure all purchased food products, packaging, and supplies comply with local health regulations, food safety laws, and internal standards.
• Support the implementation and maintenance of ISO management systems by ensuring purchasing processes align with documented procedures and objectives.
• Maintain accurate purchasing records, supplier documentation, certificates of analysis, food safety data sheets, and traceability records.
• Participate in internal and external audits related to ISO, food safety, and quality management systems, and address corrective actions related to procurement.
• Analyze market trends, supplier performance, and cost structures to identify sourcing improvements and risk mitigation opportunities.
• Monitor supplier performance, conduct periodic evaluations, and manage non-conformities related to quality, delivery, or food safety.
  
  

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Hospitality Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of purchasing or procurement experience in catering, food service, or hospitality operations.
• Strong negotiation, contract management, and supplier relationship skills.
• Knowledge of food safety standards, hygiene regulations, and basic principles of ISO management systems
• Experience with inventory management systems and procurement software.
• High level of organizational skills with strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Available to work during weekends and in the holidays.