At Woodland Gourmet, we believe that our employees are our greatest asset. We foster a culture that thrives on collaboration, innovation, and continuous growth. Our team members are encouraged and empowered to take on challenges, contribute their unique perspectives, and develop their careers. We are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and dynamic work environment where every individual’s contribution is valued, and everyone has the opportunity to succeed. As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain focused on fostering an atmosphere of learning, respect, and teamwork.

Woodland Gourmet

Since 1989, Woodland Foods has been a trusted source of inspiration for food lovers worldwide. Rooted in authenticity and global culinary exploration, we are dedicated to providing globally inspired specialty ingredients that enhance culinary experiences. Our mission is to partner with customers who share our passion for authentic food solutions, focusing on Collaborative Innovation, Product Diversity, and Agile Operations. With our seasoned team, we craft innovative food experiences by exploring gourmet ingredients and unique flavors.

In December 2021, Woodland Foods was acquired by Graham Partners, a private investment firm committed to growing businesses with strong technological, manufacturing, and product development capabilities.

Idan Foods

Established in 1978, Idan Foods is renowned for its expertise in fried chicken breading, seasoning, baking mixes, and packaging. Specializing in creating unique textures, flavors, and spices, Idan is dedicated to helping customers build their own brand identities. From research and development to packaging and shipping, Idan takes pride in providing exceptional customer service, ensuring each product meets the highest standards. Idan Foods joined the Woodland Gourmet family in April 2024, bringing its expertise in custom food formulation and blending services to our growing portfolio.

Sevillo Fine Foods

Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, Sevillo Fine Foods focuses on producing all-natural, ready-to-eat frozen products designed to save time and labor in the kitchen. With an emphasis on fire-roasted vegetables, slow-roasted tomatoes, spreads, and sauces, Sevillo elevates menus with value-added solutions. The integration of Sevillo with Woodland Gourmet, finalized in March 2025, opens up significant cross-selling opportunities, particularly in the food service distribution channel. This strategic acquisition strengthens our position in the retail and industrial markets while enhancing our capabilities in creating tailored culinary solutions.

Graham Partners

Graham Partners, founded in 1988, is a private investment firm focused on businesses with proprietary technologies, advanced manufacturing expertise, and strong growth potential. With over 110 acquisitions and investments, Graham Partners has a long history of backing companies in the food and consumer technology sectors, including Woodland Gourmet, Commercial Bakeries, Giraffe Food, and more. With significant industry experience and access to extensive operational resources, Graham Partners is a key driver in Woodland Gourmet's growth and success.

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Buyer

Waukegan, IL

Full Time

Woodland Foods

Experienced

Title: Buyer
FLSA Status: Exempt
Reports to: Vice President Strategic Sourcing & Procurement
Supervises: NA
Travel: As needed according to essential functions of position
Department: Purchasing
Revision Date: 6/16/2025

JOB PURPOSE: This position will manage the buying activities of all Indirect Spend and Direct Spend through the purchasing, sourcing, and management of supplies, services, and international ingredients. This position is four days in the plant/office.
Essential Functions

Issue purchase orders to vendors based on approved requisitions and review Purchase Orders for indirect products/services and subcontracting to ensure all necessary information, documentation, and required signatures are present
Obtain Order Confirmations with expected delivery dates from vendors
Assist with resolving any issues related to orders, including shipment errors, damaged goods, and other supplier concerns
Keep in touch with suppliers on open orders and communicate any delays and/or early deliveries to the project leads, and update internal systems accordingly so that the respective site is aware
Manage relationships with vendors, responding to inquiries and concerns in a timely and professional manner
Work with the supplier to expedite orders as needed to meet the demands and timelines set forth by department leads and communicate the status
Provide PO/Invoice management assistance and support to cross-functional departments
Identify areas for process improvement and implement solutions to improve efficiency and accuracy
Assemble and issue Requests for Proposal (RFP)/Tenders, commercial agreements (POs), contract preparation, and issuance by sourcing bids from Multiple Suppliers and negotiating contracts and terms for the best outcomes
Sourcing from different countries world-wide with strategic partners managing ocean freight logistics and customs clearance with brokers and 3PL
Monitor shipments and take all necessary steps to ensure that they are received in a timely manner with the stakeholders
Communicate with each department on issues concerning defective or unacceptable goods, and determine corrective action

QUALIFICATIONS

BS/BA or A/AS Degree
4+ years of purchasing/procurement/supply chain/operations or related field
4+ years’ experience with ERP tracking systems or equivalent control systems
Experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, Food Manufacturing experience preferred
Strong negotiating, analytical and problem-solving skills
Highly detailed and organized
Functional Excel experience
APICS Certification a Plus

Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Able to Stand for long periods of time, Lift and move materials 25 pounds and utilize lift assistance or a colleague for items greater than 25 pounds to move them safely.

Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Works in a Floor manufacturing environment as well as an office environment. Ability to work in a maintenance shop parts and storage room for a long period of time.
Has the ability or organize material stock and manage the inventory system.

This document in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position.

Woodland Gourmet hires exceptional people to perform a wide variety of important functions that contribute to the success of our organization. We offer a competitive compensation package with benefits. The base salary for this role will be $65,000 to $80,000. This position is eligible for annual bonus (based on the incentive program terms and conditions). Based on your qualifications, previous experience, and transferable skills, the company will determine, at its discretion, the salary offered and it will reflect the market conditions and cost of living for your geographic location.

Our benefits program is designed to support our team in leading healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives. We deeply value the contributions of our team members and are committed to offering a competitive total compensation package. Additionally, we offer medical, prescription drug plan, dental, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, vision insurance, flexible spending account, health savings account, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance program, voluntary benefits (hospital, critical illness, personal accident, legal & identify theft), 401k with company match, paid family leave, paid holidays and paid time off.

Woodland Gourmet is a participant in the federal E-Verify program. As part of the hiring process, we will verify the information provided on your Form I-9 to confirm your eligibility to work in the United States.

E-Verify is an Internet-based system that compares information from your Form I-9 to government records to confirm employment eligibility. For more information on E-Verify and your rights, please visit the E-Verify website.

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This is a primarily onsite role. If you are considered, you must be willing to relocate to Waukegan, IL area. No international candidates will be considered. No visa sponsorships for this role.

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