Raw Materials Manager

About Veg Fresh Farms LLC

Veg Fresh Farms LLC is a leading provider of fresh, high-quality vegetables and produce, committed to sustainable farming practices and delivering exceptional products to our customers. We prioritize food safety, innovation, and efficiency in our supply chain. Join our dynamic team and contribute to a company that values integrity, collaboration, and excellence in the agricultural industry.

Job Summary

The Materials Manager will oversee the procurement, inventory management, and supply chain operations for Veg Fresh Farms LLC, ensuring seamless coordination of materials across our operations. This role focuses on negotiating contracts with vendor suppliers to optimize in-stock levels, control costs, and adhere to stringent food safety standards (SQF). The ideal candidate is a seasoned professional with strong leadership skills, capable of supervising a team and collaborating with sales, Marketing and buying teams to maintain efficient inventory flows to multiple off-site packing facilities. This position plays a critical role in supporting our commitment to quality, safety, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead contract negotiations with vendor suppliers, emphasizing in-stock availability, competitive costing, and compliance with Veg Fresh Farms' food safety requirements based on SQF standards.

- Supervise and mentor a team of inventory specialists to maintain optimal stock levels, minimize waste, and ensure timely replenishment of materials.

- Collaborate closely with Veg Fresh salespeople, Marketing and buyers to forecast demand, coordinate material inventory, and align supply chain activities with sales goals and production needs across multiple off-site packing facilities.

- Develop and implement inventory management strategies, including tracking, auditing, and reporting on stock levels to support efficient operations and reduce downtime.

- Monitor supplier performance, conduct regular reviews, and resolve any issues related to quality, delivery, or compliance to uphold our high standards.

- Analyze market trends, pricing fluctuations, and supply chain risks to inform procurement decisions and cost-saving initiatives.

- Ensure all materials handling and storage practices comply with food safety regulations, including documentation and audits for SQF certification.

- Prepare and present reports on inventory metrics, supplier performance, and cost analyses to senior management.

- Foster strong relationships with internal stakeholders (e.g., sales, marketing, operations, and quality assurance teams) and external vendors to drive continuous improvement in the supply chain.

Qualifications and Requirements

- Experience: Minimum of 5 years in a similar materials management or supply chain role, preferably in the agriculture, food production, or perishable goods industry. Proven track record in contract negotiations, inventory control, and supplier management.

- Education: Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Logistics, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).

Skills and Abilities:

- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to negotiate effectively and build relationships with vendors, team members, and cross-functional stakeholders.

- Strong organizational skills, with a detail-oriented approach to managing complex inventories and multitasking in a fast-paced environment.

- Proven leadership abilities, including supervising and developing a team to achieve operational goals.

- Proficiency in inventory management software Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel for data analysis), and supply chain tools.

- Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data, forecast needs, and implement cost-effective solutions.

- Knowledge of food safety regulations, particularly SQF Edition 9, and experience ensuring compliance in a supply chain context.

Other Requirements: Ability to travel occasionally to off-site packing facilities and vendor locations. Must be able to work in a dynamic agricultural environment, which may include exposure to varying temperatures and physical inventory checks.

What We Offer

- Competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

- Opportunities for professional growth in a supportive, innovative company culture.

- The chance to make a meaningful impact on sustainable food production and supply chain efficiency.

Veg Fresh Farms LLC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $80,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Warehouse experience: 5 years (Required)
• Organizational skills: 3 years (Required)
• Analysis skills: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Corona, CA 92878: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person