Manager, Farm Relationships and Procurement

Title: Manager, Farm Relationships & Procurement

Location: Buffalo United States

Job Description:

Job Type

Full-time

Description

Looking for a job that can turn into a lifelong career? At Lactalis USA, we believe in promoting from within and giving our employees opportunities to grow. Whether you're starting fresh or bringing years of experience, we'll provide the tools and support you need to succeed!

Lactalis, the world leader in dairy, is a family-owned business with more than 85,000 pragmatic and ambitious professionals worldwide, committed to nurturing the future by providing healthy and delicious dairy products that bring people together every day. We produce award-winning dairy products that bring people together every day. We offer an enviable range of dairy brands including Galbani, Président, Kraft Natural Cheese, Cracker Barrel, Black Diamond, Parmalat, Siggi's, and Stonyfield Organic in addition to several brands imported from our affiliates in Europe.

We live by our core values-Ambition, Engagement, and Simplicity-and we're building a workplace where innovation thrives, diverse perspectives are celebrated, and everyone's unique background and ideas are valued.

Even if you don't meet every qualification, don't let that stop you from applying! We're eager to hear about your PASSION, your STORY, and how you can bring your EXPERTISE to help us make an impact.

From your PASSION to ours

The Farm Relationship Manager supports Lactalis USA's milk sourcing strategy by fostering strong relationships with dairy producers and supporting on-farm initiatives that align with the company's values in sustainability, animal welfare, milk quality, and supply chain efficiency. This role is responsible for managing direct supply relationships, supporting farm-level programs, corporate social responsibility, and contributing to the continuous improvement of milk sourcing practices across all Lactalis USA business units. This is a preferred hybrid position in Buffalo with regular travel required.

From your EXPERTISE to ours

Key responsibilities for this position include:

• Contribute to delivery of the milk sourcing strategy as an active participant on internal milk sourcing team dedicated to milk quality, on-farm sustainability, cost performance, and service level.
• Lead recruitment and onboarding of new direct milk producers based on regional and milk type needs (Organic, Conventional, NGMO), aligning with company sourcing priorities.
• Serve as a farm liaison by fostering strong communication and relationships with producers while addressing topics such as Animal Welfare, Sustainability, and other Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives.
• Work to identify and cultivate relationships with prospective farmers who fit Lactalis USA direct milk supply sourcing criteria.
• Actively seek opportunities to preserve existing Organic dairy farms and spur growth of Organic dairy production, including support for transitions from Conventional to Organic systems.
• Support technical assistance programs that offer participating farmers access to individualized services to improve profitability and sustainability, including coordination with third-party providers.
• Perform administrative functions to support programs, including vendor management, tracking spend, and developing and tracking key performance indicators.
• Support leadership in providing regular progress updates on farm recruitment efforts, program development, and implementation across all business units.
• Coordinate with the procurement operations team to adjust when routes and delivery times change.
• Serve as a subject matter expert on food safety and quality, with a focus on on-farm compliance related to Bulk Tank Unit (BTU) Federal and State PMO Ratings, in alignment with the federal Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO), plant protocols, and departmental procedures.
• Support PR, Marketing, and Communications teams in promoting Lactalis USA and its business units' direct supply farm relationships, including organizing on-farm tours and virtual events.
• Lead initiatives and projects on animal care and carbon footprint reduction, coordinating activities with the company's CSR team.
• Apply knowledge of dairy cattle nutrition to develop programs and recommendations that lead to feed efficiency and milk productivity.
• Obtain certification as a F.A.R.M. (Farmers Assuring Responsible Management) evaluator across all program areas, including Animal Welfare, Environmental Stewardship (FARM ES), and Workforce Development. Additionally, complete Cow Signals certification, Lactalis' preferred animal welfare training program
• Knowledgeable about or ability to quickly develop strong understanding of keys to successful transition from conventional to organic dairy.

Work Conditions:

• Extended hours may be necessary depending on the project needs.
• Ideally, this role will be based in Buffalo, NY, with occasional travel required. However, we are open to considering candidates located throughout Western NY and PA who can effectively cover the region.
• To fulfill these responsibilities, tools such as a computer, phone or, and / or allowance(s) may be provided.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential duties and responsibilities.
• Demonstrate commitment to a safe working environment that promotes the health and well-being of all employees and that will further contribute to the Company's overall performance and success.

Requirements

From your STORY to ours

Qualified applicants will contribute the following:

Education

• Bachelor's degree or higher preferred; or equivalent experience to include a minimum of five (5) years job-related experience
• Majors in agricultural studies or animal science are preferred.

Experience

• 5+ years related industry experience is required.
• Experience working on or with farms is highly preferred.
• Experience in the food or dairy industry is a plus.

Competencies

• Proficiency in MS Excel and statistical analysis
• Strong mathematical and numerical skills
• Strategic thinking
• Auditing skills
• Mastery of the agricultural environment, including cow treatment and preventative medicine
• Knowledge of animal science and farm management

At Lactalis, we offer a comprehensive Total Rewards Program with a variety of affordable benefits and coverage options. We support insurance costs significantly, contribute generously to retirement plans, and offer Paid Time Off from day one. We are committed to your professional growth, providing training and development opportunities, including Education Reimbursement. Join us and grow your career.

Lactalis is an equal employment opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against applicants with regard to any legally-recognized basis including, but not limited to: veteran status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, and physical or mental disabilities.

Salary Description

$85,000 - $100,000 annual