About this role
The Opportunity We are seeking a disciplined, results-driven Procurement Specialist to join our team. In this role, you will ensure that all essential operational materials, inventory, and supplies required for our greenhouse and nursery operations are available on time, in the right quantities, and at the best total cost, without compromising on quality. This is a core position within our team, designed for a proactive professional who excels at managing supplier relationships, mitigating supply risks, and partnering cross-functionally to keep high-volume operations running smoothly. As our department evolves, you will play an active role in helping design and establish the foundational processes for a more efficient, modern purchasing department. DeVry Overview DeVry Greenhouses is a leading wholesale supplier of bedding plants and nursery trees, proudly serving customers and major retailers across North America. At DeVry, we work hard, support one another, and take pride in growing high-quality plants that bring color and life to communities everywhere. Our team is young, energetic, and collaborative, especially during our busy peak seasons when everyone rolls up their sleeves to get the job done. This is an opportunity to be part of a growing company that values teamwork, continuous improvement, and our purpose of Inspiring People to Grow. Key Responsibilities
• Purchasing Execution: Execute high-volume purchase orders (POs) to meet demanding operational and production schedules.
• Supplier & Vendor Management: Serve as the day-to-day point of contact for external suppliers and partners.
• Operational & Cross-Functional Alignment: Partner closely with internal teams - including Growing, Sales, Planning, and Operations - to align purchasing activities with forecasting and seasonal demand. Proactively manage procurement timelines multiple seasons in advance, communicating supply risks, volume constraints, or potential logistical delays early.
• System & Process Optimization: Evaluate current inventory and ERP software tools to identify areas for system improvement. Leverage modern AI and digital tools to streamline data workflows, enhance reporting efficiency, and accelerate departmental capabilities.
• Cost Discipline & Quote Management: Conduct rigorous quote comparisons within approved supplier frameworks. Regularly review supplier agreements to identify cost-saving opportunities, efficiency gains, and margin improvements.
• Compliance & Quality Control: Ensure all purchased goods meet strict quality standards and adhere to applicable regulatory requirements (such as CFIA).
Qualifications
• Post-secondary education in Supply Chain, Business, Agriculture, or equivalent practical experience is required.
• Strong procurement experience with a proven track record of handling high-volume purchasing, time-sensitive industries (e.g., agriculture, horticulture, manufacturing, or distribution) is highly valued.
• Comfortable working with ERP, inventory systems, and modern purchasing tools.
• Advanced Excel Skills: Proficient in data analysis using VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, Pivot Tables, advanced formulas, and managing large datasets"
• Strong understanding of calculating total landed costs and protecting company margins.
• Clear, professional communicator who can seamlessly collaborate across multiple internal departments and external networks.
• High