The Buyer is responsible for sourcing and purchasing goods and services that support manufacturing operations, including direct materials, indirect spend, and projects. This role partners closely with Supply Planning, Production, Engineering, Quality, and Finance to ensure uninterrupted supply, competitive total cost, and strong supplier performance while meeting internal controls and compliance requirements.
What You'll Do
Purchasing & Supplier Coordination:
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Source and procure packaging, raw materials, and indirect materials to support production, inventory, and commercialization requirements.
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Support supplier selection, RFQ/RFPs, quotation comparisons, and pricing reviews in alignment with procurement objectives.
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Maintain strong working relationships with domestic and overseas suppliers to support continuity of supply and timely issue resolution.
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Coordinate international purchasing activities including supplier communication, lead-time tracking, freight coordination, and shipment follow-up (as applicable).
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Monitor supplier performance related to quality, delivery, responsiveness, and service levels; support corrective actions as needed.
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Work closely with Procurement, Supply Planning, Operations, Logistics, and Quality teams to support material availability and minimize supply disruptions.
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Assist with alternate sourcing activities and supply risk mitigation initiatives for critical materials.
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Ensure purchasing activities align with company compliance, quality, and documentation requirements, including internal approval controls.
Replenishment & Supply Support:
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Monitor inventory levels, supplier lead times, and material requirements to support uninterrupted production.
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Support replenishment plans for long lead-time materials, including overseas supply lanes where applicable.
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Track open purchase orders, supplier commitments, and inbound shipments; expedite as required to meet site needs.
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Support inventory optimization efforts (e.g., safety stock inputs) and continuity planning for critical materials.
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Proactively communicate supply risks, delays, and potential impacts to internal stakeholders, escalating issues with clear options and recommendations
Innovation & New Product Development (NPD) Support:
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Support sourcing activities related to new product launches, packaging updates, and innovation initiatives.
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Coordinate material and component availability to support prototype development and commercialization timelines.
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Collaborate with R&D/Innovation and cross-functional teams to evaluate supplier capabilities and material options
Support cost analysis and sourcing recommendations that balance quality, service, risk, and total cost.
OTHER DUTIES
At Village Farms we are all growers at heart. Our plants and processes require in-person care and attention to ensure we’re bringing the best our plants and people have to offer to our consumers. This means other duties may arise since we work together to ensure we support all business activities – seed to sale.
This role is on-site, which requires you to work on facility at all times in a Buyer role or directly supporting operations.
What You Bring
Education
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Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business, or related field preferred or equivalent experience.
Experience
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5+ years of purchasing, procurement, and/or supply chain experience in a manufacturing environment.
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Consumer goods experience is an asset.
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Experience working with overseas suppliers and international supply chains strongly preferred.
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Experience supporting new product development (NPD) or commercialization activities preferred.
Knowledge & Skills
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Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills; able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
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Continuous improvement mindset; able to identify process gaps and implement practical solutions.
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Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Excel required; experience with Acumatica is an asset
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Understanding of international logistics, freight coordination, import processes, and long lead-time procurement considered an asset.
Life at Village Farms
We believe It Takes A Village ® and we mean it.
It shows up in how we support each other, how we innovate, and how we win as a team.
Our values guide every decision we make:
Versatility| Innovation | Leadership | Loyalty | Accountability | Grit | Entrepreneurship
What you do here matters - to our people, our products, and the customers we serve.
We’ve got you covered with company-paid comprehensive benefits and education assistance to support your growth.
Ready to Grow With Us?
If you want to be part of something that has real impact - we’d love to meet you.
