Produce Buying Analyst

About Us: Empire Marketing Strategies has been a leader in delivering exceptional in-store execution for over 40 years, enhancing the customer experience in grocery retail. Operating in all 18 Kroger divisions across the U.S., we partner with some of the world's top brands to optimize their presence in over 2,500 store locations. Our team thrives on tackling diverse challenges in the fast-paced retail industry. We value dedication, talent, and a passion for excellence.

Why Join Us?

• Flexible, M-F Work Schedule, 9 Holidays off
• Earn a competitive salary plus 80% employer-covered benefits
• Full-Time Associates: Eligible for medical, dental, vision, life and AD&D insurance, disability coverage, a retirement program, mental health support, paid time off, and 9 paid holidays annually.
• Part-Time Associates: Eligible for our retirement program and access to mental health support resources
• A dynamic work environment where you’ll make a real impact.

Job Summary:

The Buyer Analyst serves as the primary liaison between Category Management, Buying, Replenishment, Suppliers, Distribution Centers, and Supply Chain teams. The role is focused on purchase order execution, supplier coordination, inventory flow, and operational support to ensure products are ordered, shipped, and received according to business needs.

Essential Functions:

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions:

• Inventory Analysis & Tracking
• Order Development & Communication
• Client & Team Support

Core Functions:

Buyer Analyst/Liaison

• Serve as the primary liaison between Category Managers, Buyers, Suppliers, Replenishment, Distribution Centers, and Supply Chain teams.
• Monitor purchase orders from creation through receipt, ensuring timely and accurate execution.
• Verify purchase orders are placed according to category plans, supplier commitments, and replenishment requirements.
• Track shipment activity and ensure purchase orders are dispatched, delivered, and received according to schedule.
• Communicate proactively with suppliers and internal partners regarding shipment delays, shortages, quality concerns, or inventory risks.
• Coordinate purchase order revisions due to supplier changes, replenishment adjustments, or operational requirements.
• Review purchase order status reports and resolve exceptions impacting product availability.
• Manage and resolve distribution center overages, shortages, damages, and rejected loads.
• Partner with Supply Chain and Distribution teams to identify and resolve fulfillment issues.
• Support Ad execution and promotional events by ensuring inventory commitments and purchase orders align with merchandising plans.
• Maintain supplier communications regarding pricing, volume commitments, shipment schedules, and operational performance.
• Assist Category Managers with execution of category strategies and seasonal programs.
• Ensure timely resolution of operational issues impacting in-stock performance and customer service.
• Develop strong working relationships with internal and external business partners.
• Support department initiatives, process improvements, and cross-functional projects.
• Demonstrate Kroger's core values of respect, honesty, integrity, diversity, inclusion, and safety.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Finance, Analytics, Economics, Communications, or related field preferred.
• 1+ years of experience in merchandising, procurement, replenishment, supply chain, inventory management, business analytics, or related functions preferred.
• Experience working with Kroger or similar retail accounts is a plus.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including formulas, reporting, and data analysis.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, PowerPoint, and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail and follow-through.
• Ability to build effective relationships with suppliers and cross-functional business partners.
• Experience analyzing sales, inventory, and purchasing data to support business decisions.
• Knowledge of procurement, inventory management, and retail merchandising practices.
• Strong financial acumen and understanding of key business metrics.
• Ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make sound recommendations.
• Experience with purchasing, inventory management, or ERP systems preferred.
• Highly motivated self-starter capable of working independently and as part of a team.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

Tools and Equipment:

• Proficiency in analytical tools and data sources (e.g., KCMS/Business Objects/Extra(OLP)/iTrade).
• Familiarity with Microsoft platforms (e.g., Excel, Access, Word).

Work Environment:

• Based in the Greater Cincinnati area, with a requirement of 5 days in the office.
• Collaborative and dynamic team environment with cross-functional engagement.