School Lunch Procurement Assistant

The School Lunch Association (SLA) is committed to providing nutritious, high-quality meals to students across Newfoundland. Their mission is to ensure that every child has access to a hot, nutritious lunch, regardless of their family's financial situation. As part of this vital program, they are seeking a Procurement Assistant to oversee and optimize the sourcing and supply of food and materials essential for our operation.

About the Role:

The School Lunch Procurement Assistant is a key player in ensuring the smooth delivery of their school lunch program. This role works with their Procurement Manager to oversee the procurement of food and supplies for approximately 43 schools, with a weekly procurement budget of approximately $50,000. Working closely with Operation Managers, admin team and school lunch staff, you will maintain inventory, manage vendor relationships, and ensure compliance with nutrition and safety guidelines. This is an opportunity to directly impact the lives of thousands of students while driving efficiency and innovation in the procurement process.

What you'll be doing:

• Procurement and Vendor Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure consistent quality and service. Place and manage orders for up to 43 schools, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery. Monitor inventory levels to avoid overstocking or shortages.
• Budget Management: Assist with the procurement budget, ensuring alignment with financial goals. Track expenditures and report on budget variances. Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining quality standards.
• Compliance and Quality Assurance: Stay updated on changes to school nutrition guidelines and adjust procurement strategies as needed. Address supplier quality issues, including coordinating returns or exchanges.
• Inventory Management: Assist with the inventory processes, including ordering and receiving supplies. Implement efficient inventory control systems to minimize waste and optimize resource use. Maintain accurate records of inventory levels.
• Menu Planning Support: Collaborate with our Operations Managers to plan and execute nutritious, appealing menus. Ensure the availability of required ingredients and supplies to support menu plans.
• Team Collaboration and Support: Work closely with up to 90 School Lunch food services staff to understand and meet their needs. Provide training on inventory management and procurement best practices. Assist in resolving issues related to food quality or supply disruptions.

Typical Day:

Morning: Check and prioritize emails, phone calls, and text messages from staff and suppliers. Address urgent issues like delivery delays or supply shortages.

Midday: Review weekly orders to ensure accuracy and completeness. Confirm upcoming deliveries and logistics. Follow up with schools to address any questions or adjustments.

Afternoon: Conduct final checks, prioritize tasks for the next day, and handle any urgent orders.

What you'll bring:

• Experience: Minimum 3-5 years of experience in procurement and kitchen operations, preferably in a school or institutional food service setting.
• Skills: Strong negotiation and vendor management abilities. Excellent organizational and time management skills. Proficiency in inventory management software and Microsoft Office Suite. Knowledge of food safety regulations and nutritional guidelines. Analytical problem-solving skills with effective communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.
• Other Requirements: Requirements: Must have own vehicle, valid driver's license and the ability to pass criminal and vulnerable sector checks.

Work Environment:

This role is primarily office-based with occasional travel to school kitchens and vendor locations.

Why Join the School Lunch Association?

At the School Lunch Association, you'll be part of a passionate team that makes a tangible difference in the lives of children. This role offers the opportunity to grow your career in a rewarding, mission-driven organization while enjoying a supportive workplace and competitive benefits.

How to apply:

Megan Jackson | Recruiter | [email protected]

At Higher Talent we recognize the value of diversity and are committed to making intentional steps toward building inclusive teams that better reflect the communities Higher Talent and the organizations we serve operate within. We believe that inclusion is not just about making room at the table but about seeking out talent through a diversity lens and letting everyone know that their unique perspectives are important contributions to building stronger workplaces in a changing world.

We encourage all qualified candidates to apply for our posted positions. We welcome candidates to self-identify or make our recruitment team aware of any potential accommodations they may need during the recruitment process.

This opportunity is only available for candidates legally entitled to work in Canada. We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those candidates being considered for an interview will be contacted.