Florist/Buyer Purchaser

We are currently hiring for a FLORAL BUYER/SHOPPER. This position is responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and managing fresh-cut flowers, plants, and floral supplies to meet the companys sales and quality goals. This role ensures consistent product availability through strong vendor relationships, accurate forecasting, efficient logistics, and adherence to quality standards. This is a temp to perm position with opportunity of full-time hire for the right candidate. This will be an excellent opportunity for someone to work closely with one of the top floral designers in the country. It also has growth opportunities. This position requires someone who can work early in the mornings to go source flowers in the New York City flower market. Salary $20-$23/hr. depending on experience.

Key Responsibilities
Purchasing & Procurement
Source and purchase fresh flowers, plants, greens, and floral supplies from domestic and international vendors.
Negotiate pricing, contracts, freight terms, and volume agreements to achieve optimal cost and margin targets.
Monitor market conditions, seasonal availability, and industry trends to make informed purchasing decisions.
Maintain accurate inventory forecasts based on sales data, seasonality, and promotional activity.
Inspect and evaluate incoming floral shipments to ensure freshness, quality, stem count, and grade standards meet company requirements.
Manage product rotation and resolve quality issues or claims with vendors.
Coordinate with management team to ensure proper storage, handling, and waste control.
Build and manage relationships with flower farms, wholesalers, importers, and logistics partners.
Track shipments and coordinate delivery schedules to ensure on-time arrival.
Evaluate vendor performance and recommend improvements or changes as needed.
Data Analysis & Reporting
Analyze sales performance, product profitability, cost trends, and shrink data to guide purchasing decisions.
Prepare purchasing reports, budget forecasts, and seasonal buy plans.
Manage pricing updates and product lifecycle decisions.
Work closely with floral designers and management team to anticipate assortment needs.
Collaborate with marketing to plan for events.
Support new product development and trend-driven floral assortment planning.

Qualifications
25 years experience in floral purchasing, wholesale flower operations, or related supply chain role.
Strong knowledge of fresh-cut flowers, plant varieties, seasonality, and quality standards.
Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
Proficiency in inventory management systems, Excel spreadsheets, and purchasing software.
Ability to work early mornings and go to the New York City floral market.
Background in retail floral operations or event/wedding production.
Familiarity with cold chain management and perishables forecasting.
Bilingual in English/Spanish
Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills
Analytical and financially focused
Adaptable in a fast-paced, perishable-driven environment
Strong problem-solver with the ability to make quick decisions
Passionate about floral products and evolving industry trends

Physical Requirements
Ability to work in refrigerated environments for short periods
Ability to lift up to 2540 lbs (depending on product type)
Ability to stand, bend, or move throughout design studio or floral storage areas

Schedule: Monday to Friday from 4:30am to 1pm with weekend work as needed
Pay: $20-$23 depending on experience