About this opportunity
Element Food Solutions lists this MRP Buyer Analyst opportunity in la grange, Illinois. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
Summary of Job
The MRP Buyer Analyst is responsible for executing purchasing activities based on MRP signals from the Infor M3 ERP system, ensuring on-time procurement, optimal inventory levels, cost control, and supplier performance. This role requires strong analytical capabilities, advanced Excel proficiency (pivot tables, charts, macros), and a solid understanding of supply and demand dynamics within the food and beverage industry.
The position is KPI-driven, requiring familiarity with both industry-standard metrics and internal company performance indicators. The MRP Buyer Analyst plays a key role in maintaining supply continuity, supporting strategic decision making, and driving continuous improvement across procurement operations.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
MRP Execution & Purchasing -
Process MRP messages including Pull-in, Push-out, and Cancellations.
Generate and manage purchase orders based on system demand and forecasted requirements.
Ensure Purchase order on time delivery from suppliers.
Monitor and act on shortage reports, past due reports, and supply & demand reports.
Cost & Price Management
Track and analyze Purchase Price Variance (PPV)
Support cost control initiatives and identify opportunities for savings.
Inventory & Obsolescence Control (E&O)
Monitor inventory levels to avoid excess stock, obsolete materials, and stockouts.
Support inventory health through proactive MRP Messages execution
Monitor Expiration ingredients Inventory Reports
Participate in inventory reviews internally and with customers.
Data Analysis & Reporting
Develop and maintain Excel based tools for analysis and projections using pivot tables, charts, and macros.
Ensure data integrity across procurement reports and ERP entries.
Provide visibility into purchasing trends, supplier performance, and forecast accuracy.
Internal & External Communication
Maintain active communication with internal stakeholders (planning, operations, warehouse finance) and external customers/suppliers.
Ensure alignment on material needs, delivery schedules (BluJay), and service expectations.
KPI Ownership & Continuous Improvement
Own and track key performance indicators such as:
• On time delivery rate (Past Due Reports accuracy)
• Purchase order accuracy
• Inventory turnover
• PPV/FPPV trends
• System Data integrity Maintenance (LT updates, Delivery Terms, ETA Accuracy, etc.)
Food Safety Responsibilities:
Follow all relevant food safety rules including SQF, cGMPs, and Food Defense.
Report any observed food safety violations to your supervisor immediately.
Education and Qualifications
Required Skills & Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Business, Engineering, or related field.
Minimum 3 years of experience in MRP-based purchasing, preferably in food & beverage.
Strong knowledge of ERP systems (Oracle, SAP, BAAN, etc), ideally Infor M3.
Advanced Excel skills: pivot tables, VLOOKUP, charts, macros (Essential).
Strong analytical mindset with ability to interpret large datasets and generate actionable insights.
Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
Detail oriented, organized, and proactive.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with supplier scorecards, cost analysis, and forecast modeling.
Knowledge of food safety regulations and quality standards.
Core Benefits
Basic Life Insurance
Short Term Disability
Long Term Disability
Paid Time Off
Paid Leave
Voluntary Benefits
Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
Pet Insurance
401 k (matching)
Accident
Critical Illness
Wellness
Worksite address
la grange, IL, 60525, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.