Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Timeline
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David Makas

Old Lyme,CT

Summary

I have a long history in the produce business on many levels. I grew up on a family farm and I have been a produce broker and a V.P. of Purchasing for a wholesale produce company that serviced a wholesale and retail customer base. Results-driven Buyer with expertise in negotiation, vendor relationship management, and logistics optimization. Proven ability to streamline inventory processes and secure favorable terms.

Overview

29
29
years of professional experience

Work History

Buyer

Freshpoint
Hartford, CT
08.2021 - 02.2026
  • Managed purchase orders for fresh produce and other food items.
  • Negotiated contracts with suppliers to secure favorable terms.
  • Evaluated vendor performance to ensure quality and reliability.
  • Collaborated with logistics teams to streamline inventory processes.
  • Developed relationships with vendors to secure better prices and payment terms.
  • Participated in negotiations with vendors concerning prices, delivery schedules, warranties and other contractual issues.

Buying/Sales

PJ'S Fruit and Produce
New Haven, CT
12.2018 - 08.2021

.

  • Contributed innovative ideas and solutions to enhance team performance and outcomes.
  • Completed day-to-day duties accurately and efficiently.
  • Identified needs of customers promptly and efficiently.
  • Collaborated closely with team members to achieve project objectives and meet deadlines.

Vice President Purchasing

M&M Produce
Hartford, CT
01.2002 - 03.2015

Oversaw purchasing processes for seven buyers while coordinating 85% of logistics operations.

  • Led strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency across departments.
  • Fostered partnerships with suppliers to improve product quality and availability.
  • Provided oversight for all departments to ensure smooth daily operations.
  • Negotiated contracts with vendors for services, products, and supplies.

Produce Broker

Coast to Coast Produce
Cheshire, CT
10.1996 - 01.2002

I bought produce FOB for our customers and arranged the logistics in order for the product to be picked up at shipping point and delivered to their warehouse. I also obtained AD pricing on a regular basis.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Marketing

College Of St. Rose
Albany, NY
05.1994

Skills

  • Extensive Produce Background
  • Seasoned FOB Buyer
  • Excellent Grower Relationships
  • Inbound/Outbound Logistic Experience
  • Operate Well In A High Stress Environment
  • Shipping And Receiving Experience
  • Inventory Tracking Experience
  • Team Player
  • Excellent Negotiation Skills
  • Ability To Multitask
  • Willing To Learn And Grow

Accomplishments

Negotiated pricing with growers on a daily basis as well as year round contract pricing.
Was able to utilize the regional produce markets to fill shorts.
Consistently maintained relationships with many growers to insure we had produce when a certain item wasn't readily available due to weather related issues.
Produced a 98% fill rate for the customer.
Negotiated pricing on a daily basis with transportation carriers.
Reduced shipping operating expenses by 12%, while maintaining shipping volume and accuracy.
Managed a warehouse and 90 employees on a daily basis

Timeline

Buyer

Freshpoint
08.2021 - 02.2026

Buying/Sales

PJ'S Fruit and Produce
12.2018 - 08.2021

Vice President Purchasing

M&M Produce
01.2002 - 03.2015

Produce Broker

Coast to Coast Produce
10.1996 - 01.2002

Bachelor of Science - Marketing

College Of St. Rose
David Makas