Senior Category Buyer Position Available In Polk, Florida

Senior Category Buyer 3.1 3.1 out of 5 stars Davenport, FL 33897 Sun Orchard is the undisputed market leader in not-from-concentrate citrus ingredients and refreshments. We are looking for an experienced Senior Category Buyer to join our team! The Senior Category Buyer is a strategic procurement leader and subject matter expert in their product categories. This role serves as the primary liaison between external suppliers and internal stakeholders, with a key focus on maximizing value through advanced sourcing strategies, long-term supplier partnerships, and category innovation. The Senior Category Buyer develops and executes strategic sourcing initiatives across raw materials and packaging, aligning with company goals related to quality, cost optimization, sustainability, and innovation. This position also leads or contributes to cross-functional projects, policy development, and the mentoring of more junior team members. What We Offer Paid time off, sick time Competitive Pay Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision, company paid life, flexible spending account, 401 matching Consistent schedules and professional growth opportunities A respectful, forward-thinking work culture Key Responsibilities 1.

STRATEGIC CATEGORY MANAGEMENT

Lead and own full category lifecycle management, including category strategy development, supplier segmentation, risk assessment, contract negotiation, performance tracking, and end-to-end value optimization. Spearhead complex negotiations and develop long-term supply agreements, ensuring alignment with legal, financial, and operational requirements. Drive improvements in procurement effectiveness and vendor performance, resolving escalated issues and ensuring continuity of supply. Lead supplier on-boarding, qualification, and compliance with corporate policies and industry standards. Develop and champion cost-reduction, quality improvement, and innovation initiatives across assigned categories. Own and lead the budgeting and forecasting process for key categories in collaboration with Finance and cross-functional teams. Guide or co-author procurement-related policies, procedures, and compliance frameworks. 2.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE & BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP

Serve as a senior advisor to internal teams on category strategy, supplier selection, and market dynamics. Deliver regular briefings to senior leadership on commodity trends, sourcing risks, harvest updates, and supply chain constraints. Conduct in-depth market research and competitive analysis to identify sourcing opportunities and potential disruptors. Build high-level vendor relationships to support collaboration, innovation, and joint value creation. Represent the Procurement team in business reviews, product development meetings, and strategic planning sessions. 3.

LEADERSHIP & STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

Act as a mentor and informal leader within the procurement team, sharing expertise and supporting professional development of junior buyers. Lead cross-functional teams on procurement transformation or strategic sourcing projects. Foster strong relationships with Operations, R D, Quality Assurance, Finance, and Marketing to align sourcing decisions with broader business goals. Promote and ensure ethical procurement practices and compliance with all relevant laws, policies, and codes of conduct. 4.

INDUSTRY ENGAGEMENT & SUPPLIER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT

Lead Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) programs for assigned categories to drive accountability, innovation, and performance. Represent the company at trade shows, industry events, and crop/harvest visits (domestic and international travel up to 20%). Establish and maintain an external supplier and market intelligence network to proactively identify risk and innovation opportunities. Stay informed of food and beverage industry trends, sustainability initiatives, packaging innovation, and sourcing technologies. Other duties as required and/or assigned Required Qualifications Bachelor?s degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Business, Agricultural Economics, or a related field. Minimum of 7 years of progressive procurement or category management experience, preferably within the food and beverage industry. Proven ability to manage complex sourcing strategies, supplier relationships, and contract negotiations independently. Strong analytical and decision-making skills, with the ability to interpret market data and translate it into actionable strategies. Advanced proficiency in Excel, procurement platforms, and ERP systems. Experience with RFP software and cost modeling tools preferred. Strong business acumen and excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience presenting to executive leadership. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. Preferred Qualifications Experience in global sourcing, food ingredients (e.g., fruit purees, citrus, berries), and packaging (PET, HDPE bottles, cartons). Experience leading cross-functional initiatives or procurement transformation efforts. Fluency in Spanish or additional language skills. Familiarity with sustainable sourcing programs and supplier diversity strategies. Physical Requirements The employee may be required to stand, walk and sit for long periods at a time, wear the proper protective equipment as required, climb a ladder or stairs, hear and communicate readily, use both hands and arms. Use of telephone, cell phones, a computer, copier, and other office equipment will be required. Travel including automobile or airplane is also required. Working Conditions This position may be performed in a manufacturing environment. There may be exposure to noise, work near moving mechanical parts and forklifts, citrus fumes or airborne particles, and outdoor weather conditions.