Junior Procurement Specialist

Berje Inc. is a family-owned business that has been in operation for over seven decades across three generations. The company was originally founded with a creative approach to creating value from byproducts and aromatic raw materials, setting the stage for Berje to become a leading supplier within the flavor and fragrance industry. We are committed to being a trusted partner, reliable innovator, and informed resources to our clients, customers, and employees. We provide quality ingredients with an emphasis on sustainability, ethics, and compliance. Our investment in training and development is our commitment to allowing our team to build their future along with ours, creating an impactful career unique to you. We promise to deliver superior service and products that live up to our values of integrity, accountability, leadership, legacy, diversity, and passion every single day.

The Junior Procurement Specialist supports the purchasing team in sourcing goods and services, maintaining supplier relationships, and ensuring timely and cost-effective procurement. This role assists with day-to-day purchasing activities, including processing purchase requests, monitoring inventory needs, coordinating with vendors, and supporting procurement reporting and analysis.

As part of these responsibilities, the Junior Procurement Specialist operates in a dynamic, fast paced, and highly collaborative environment. The position requires strong adaptability, a continuous willingness to challenge and improve existing processes, and the ability to manage stress effectively in a context where priorities may shift rapidly

This role works closely with internal stakeholders and the purchasing team to ensure accurate requirements, timely deliveries, and efficient procurement processes. This role also supports vendor communication, shortage monitoring, and administrative purchasing tasks to help maintain smooth supply chain operations. This position is to expected analyze market trends, forecast demand, and mitigate risks to optimize the procurement process.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Assist with day-to-day purchasing activities and procurement processes

Support the sourcing of equipment, goods, and services from approved suppliers

Help maintain relationships with vendors and suppliers to ensure reliable service and delivery

Track purchase orders and monitor delivery schedules

Assist in monitoring inventory levels and upcoming demand

Support cost comparisons and basic procurement analysis when needed

Maintain accurate procurement records, KPI and documentation

Collaborate with internal teams to clarify purchasing requirements

Assist with shortage reports and send reminders to Buyers/Operations/Customer Care as necessary

Communicate with vendors regarding order status, updates, or delivery issues

Ensure purchasing activities follow company policies and procedures

Provide administrative and operational support to the purchasing team

Participate in supplier meetings, trade shows, or procurement-related travel when required

Perform other duties as assigned by the Purchasing Team

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business, or a related field preferred

0-2 years of experience in procurement, purchasing, supply chain, or administrative support roles preferred

Internship or entry-level experience in procurement or supply chain is a plus

SKILLS and/or PHSYICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal

Ability to collaborate effectively with vendors and internal teams

Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills

Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines

Team-oriented while also capable of working independently Positive and professional attitude with a strong sense of accountability

Understanding of different cultural nuances and communication styles when working with international suppliers and partners

Basic analytical and problem-solving abilities

Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and familiarity with purchasing or ERP systems preferred (Netsuite, PowerBi)

Ability to travel internationally as needed for supplier visits, industry events, or procurement initiatives

Ability to work onsite in the office as required to support team collaboration and operational needs

Skilled in utilization of MS Office and vendor management software