Procurement Manager
Department: Procurement
Reports To: Procurement Director
FLSA Status: Exempt
Location:
Crookston, MN (on-site / hybrid)
Classification: Individual Contributor with growth potential
Position Overview:
The Procurement Manager sources and purchases sunflower seed from growers,
cooperatives, and suppliers to support the company's production needs. This position
serves as a primary relationship manager with sunflower growers, provides market-driven
procurement leadership, and supports long-term seed development and supply strategy
through data-driven decision-making.
Key Responsibilities: Procurement & Grower Relations
- Source, negotiate, and manage grower contracts and open acreage to ensure
adequate supply, quality, and cost competitiveness.
- Serve as the primary company representative to sunflower growers; build and
maintain strong, long-term relationships through regular field visits and industry
engagement.
- Analyze local and global market trends, supply/demand conditions, and pricing to
inform purchasing decisions.
- Maintain accurate records of contracts, purchases, and market activity.
- Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies, regulatory
requirements, and sustainability goals.
Operational & Cross-Functional Support
- Advise growers on agronomic practices, insurance requirements, and regulatory
compliance.
- Monitor crop conditions during the growing season to support forecasting and
inventory planning.
- Coordinate with logistics, transportation, and quality teams to ensure timely
delivery and quality standards.
- Assist in identifying optimal seed production locations based on quality, storage,
and transportation considerations.
Knowledge & Skills:- Strong relationship-building and negotiation skills with growers and agricultural
partners.
- Excellent communication skills (written and verbal).
- Analytical mindset with strong decision-making and attention to detail.
- Understanding of agricultural supply chains, logistics, and operational impacts.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, ERP systems, Outlook, and Teams.
- Commitment to GMP, food safety, and company standards.
Qualifications:- Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Business, Economics, Supply Chain, Operations, or
a related field.
- 5+ years of agricultural-related experience.
- Experience with sunflower and hybrid seed, or other specialized commodities, such
as dry beans, peas, flax, lentils, or similar crops; preferred
- Experience in sunflower procurement, seed production, operations, or seed sales;
preferred
Travel & Work Environment
- Approximately 60% travel, including occasional overnight stays.
- Combination of office and field work in controlled and uncontrolled environments.
- Physical demands range from sedentary to moderate, with occasional lifting up to
50 lbs.
