Purchasing Specialist (French Speaking)

ABOUT US

Seaboard Overseas and Trading Group (SOTG), a division of the Fortune 500 Seaboard Corporation, is a globally integrated leader in agricultural commodity trading, processing, and logistics. With milling facilities in 12 locations across 9 countries and 11 trading offices in 10 countries, we produce approximately two million metric tons of grain-based products annually.

Our vertically integrated approach-spanning procurement, transportation, and processing-ensures quality, consistency, and supply chain efficiency. We manage bulk freight and chartered vessels, overseeing logistics for both in-house and third-party customers. Every year, we source, transport, and market around 12 million metric tons of diverse commodities, supporting food security and economic growth in the regions we serve.

At SOTG, we are driven by innovation, collaboration, and sustainability. Our business model fosters an entrepreneurial mindset, empowering our teams to take ownership, find creative solutions, and drive impact.

GENERAL PURPOSE

The Purchasing Specialist (French Speaking) will manage procurement and supply chain needs for a designated group of overseas affiliates, primarily French-speaking. This role involves processing RFQs, invoices, and purchase orders, negotiating contracts and prices, and arranging shipments and necessary documentation. The specialist will maintain accurate records, follow up on outstanding quotes, and ensure compliance with Seaboard guidelines. Additionally, the role requires strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills, with fluency in both English and French.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as primary contact and account manager for purchasing and supply chain needs for a set group of overseas affiliates (primarily French speaking)
• Process RFQ's, approved Proforma Invoices and Purchase Order's for overseas affiliates
• Prepare final invoices for customers
• Maintain online status of pending purchases (PO status reports) and shipping status reports
• Follow up on outstanding quotes daily
• Perform contract and price negotiations according to Seaboard guidelines
• Obtain freight (air and ocean) quotes and arrange deliveries
• Arrange sailings for shipment
• Perform necessary shipping documentation required for customs clearance at destination
• Assist with courier shipments (receiving, shipping and payments)
• Perform internet research for new project requests when necessary
• Assist with emergency orders and maintain urgent order status when necessary
• Assist with following up with vendors on overdue orders and missing invoices
• Reconcile and process payments of vendor invoices.
• Arrange inspections and process clean report of findings through regulated inspection companies
• Prepare advice of shipments and email final shipping documentation to customers
• Maintain Purchase Order files for assigned group of affiliates
• Maintain knowledge and log of special requirements of each customer

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• 2+ years' experience in purchasing, business or related field - preferably with a global company
• Required Bachelor's or Associates Degree in Business, Accounting, or related field
• Must speak both English and French fluently (Spanish is a plus)
• Must have excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively communicate and interact with employees, vendors, and suppliers
• Excellent verbal/written communication skills with the ability to listen and understand others point of view and ask clarifying questions when necessary
• High attention to detail and accuracy with the ability to multi-task and prioritize
• Demonstrate the ability to cope with fast-paced environment and constant distractions.
• Strong negotiation skills with the ability to convey proposals in a simplified manner
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint
• Critical thinking for the purpose of trouble shooting and problem-solving issues independently
• Ability to prioritize departmental activities, set effective (SMART) goals and objectives in line with overall corporate strategy.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, sit and use hands to manipulate, handle or touch. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.