Procurement Director

Essence Ventures was established with the goal to articulate through experiences, media, technology, and commerce, that Black is not a monolith. Essence exists to serve Black Women deeply through culture, equity and celebration — encouraging and equipping them to embrace the power of their roles standing at the forefront of their lives, homes, and communities. We accomplish this mission and vision through our incredible and distinct brands: ESSENCE Communications, Inc. (ESSENCE, Girls' United), AFROPUNK and ESSENCE Studios).

Reporting to the CFO, the Procurement Director is responsible for overseeing the entire procurement function of the organization. This role involves strategic planning, managing large-scale procurement operations and ensuring alignment with the company's overall business goals. The Procurement Director will also manage a team of procurement professionals and work closely with senior leadership to drive cost-saving initiatives, improve procurement processes, and foster strategic partnerships with suppliers.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute long-term procurement strategies in alignment with organizational goals and market trends.
• Spearhead procurement strategies for media services, event production, digital content creation, hospitality, and transportation services
• Develop and nurture strategic partnerships with key vendors in the media and events industry
• Evaluate and select suppliers based on quality, reliability, and cost-effectiveness
• Negotiate competitive contracts that align with Sundial's high standards of service delivery
• Lead and manage the procurement team, ensuring high performance, professional development, and continuous improvement.
• Establish and maintain strategic supplier relationships, ensuring the organization receives the best value
• Oversee the procurement of services, ensuring cost-effectiveness, quality, and timeliness.
• Create innovative sourcing strategies that support Sundial's diverse spend portfolio
• Conduct comprehensive market analysis of consumer subscription, hospitality and event service providers
• Identify emerging trends and opportunities in the media and experiential marketing spaces
• Develop cost-saving initiatives while maintaining service excellence
• Implement and manage RFP process for all categories of spend
• Collaborate with senior leadership to develop and manage procurement budgets, forecasts, and cost-saving initiatives.
• Monitor and analyze procurement activities, performance metrics, and market conditions to identify opportunities for cost reduction.
• Drive procurement policy development, ensuring compliance with regulations and internal policies.
• Ensure risk management practices are in place for procurement, identifying and mitigating potential supply chain disruptions.
• Negotiate and manage large-scale contracts, ensuring favorable terms and conditions for the organization.
• Provide regular reports and updates to senior leadership on procurement performance, challenges, and opportunities.
  
  

Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Business Administration or related field (preferred).
• 8 years of experience in procurement, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience in strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, and contract negotiation.
• Strong financial acumen and ability to manage large budgets.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team management skills.
• In-depth knowledge of procurement systems, processes, and best practices.
• Ability to collaborate with senior executives and key stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to drive change and innovation in procurement practices.
• Master's degree in related field
• Professional procurement certification (CPSM, CIPS)
• Experience in experiential marketing or event production
• Knowledge of media production and digital content creation
• Must be able to lift and carry items weighing up to 25 lbs
• Requires prolonged periods of sitting, standing and walking throughout the workday, including during meetings, site visits (if applicable), or operational tasks.
• May involve occasional travel to which could include extended periods away from the primary workplace (if applicable and approved).
• East Coast based (This position does not offer relocation assistance. Candidates must be local)
• Hybrid role (3 min. days in office required)
  
  

Salary: $140k to $150k

Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k, EAP, Annual Bonus eligibility