Vendor Management Associate Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

The Deli Buyer is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and managing the procurement of products within assigned categories across all store locations. This role supports the strategic objectives of the VP of Merchandise by executing buying plans that optimize cost, quality, availability, and vendor performance. The Buyer ensures that purchasing decisions align with company merchandising, pricing, and promotional strategies while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards and supporting key operational goals such as inventory management, shrink control, and customer satisfaction.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Procurement & Vendor Relations
  • Source and purchase products within assigned categories (e.g., grocery, dairy, sporting goods, liquor, general merchandise, etc) for all retail locations.
  • Negotiate pricing, terms, promotional allowances, and delivery schedules with regional and national suppliers.
  • Build and maintain strong vendor relationships to ensure product quality, availability, and reliable service.
  • Identify new vendor opportunities and conduct product evaluations to drive assortment improvements and innovation.

• Category & Financial Performance
  • Support the Director in achieving category sales and margin goals through effective buying and sourcing practices.
  • Assist in the development and execution of category plans, including product selection, vendor mix, and seasonal transitions.
  • Monitor market trends, cost fluctuations, and competitive activity to guide pricing and promotional strategies.
  • Analyze sales, margin, and inventory data to inform buying decisions, reduce shrink, and improve inventory turns.
    
• Inventory Management & Logistics
  • Work closely with supply chain and store operations to ensure accurate forecasting and timely replenishment.
  • Assist in resolving supply chain challenges including out-of-stocks, quality concerns, and delivery issues.
  • Support the implementation of systems and processes to improve ordering accuracy and reduce waste.
    
• Compliance & Quality Assurance
  • Ensure all products meet company quality standards and comply with applicable regulatory requirements.
  • Partner with internal teams to uphold product specifications, proper rotation, labeling standards, and safety protocols.
  • Maintain documentation related to sourcing, vendor agreements, product certifications, and compliance records.
    
• Merchandising & Promotional Support
  • Collaborate with the Director and Marketing teams to plan and execute promotions, pricing strategies, and seasonal campaigns.
  • Assist in the creation of product lists, ad planners, and merchandising tools for store-level implementation.
  • Participate in product reviews and help introduce new items based on consumer insights, trends, and vendor recommendations.

Experience/Education:

• 3–5+ years of experience in buying, merchandising, or category management within a retail environment.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills with a focus on cost control, quality, and availability.
• Analytical skills with proficiency in Excel and retail systems (ERP, POS, or procurement platforms).
• Knowledge of category-specific products, trends, and supply chain considerations.
• Familiarity with applicable regulatory requirements and quality assurance standards.
• Excellent communication, time management, and organizational skills.
• Experience in natural, specialty, or conventional retail formats is preferred.

Company Description

Three Bears Alaska is a family-owned chain of Alaskan grocery stores with so much more. We are committed to providing customers with quality goods and services at the lowest possible price. We strive to meet the needs of our customers by offering a diverse range of products and exceptional customer service. With multiple locations throughout Alaska, Three Bears Alaska, Inc. is dedicated to serving the local community and creating a positive shopping experience.

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Colonial Life Elective Benefits
• 401(k)
• Paid time off
• Holiday Pay

Pay Range: Starting at $75,000/annually (DOE)

• Part-time
• Full-time
• Evening, Weekends and Holidays are required.

Office Location and Travel:

• LOCATION: In person
• Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Working Environment
Work is performed in a store setting with ability to speak and receive phone communications often. Work requires computer usage with strength, dexterity, coordination and visual acuity to use keyboard and video display terminal and other office equipment. Continuously standing, walking, reaching at/below shoulders, frequently lift/carry up to 10 pounds below waist, up to 20 pounds at waist/chest and occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This job description is intended to provide basic guidelines for meeting job requirements. Responsibilities, knowledge, skills, abilities, and working conditions may change as needs evolve.