Director of Purchasing

Title: Senior Director of Purchasing, Meat

Location: Chicago south suburbs

About the Role

• We are seeking an experienced Senior Director of Purchasing to lead and transform the procurement function for a growing national food service organization.
• The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in protein purchasing, including beef, chicken, pork, seafood, lamb, and related products. Newly created role for a fast-growing food service distributor. The role offers a competitive salary range of $175,000 to $225,000 annually, plus bonus potential. Compensation is based on education and experience.
• Be part of a fast-growing national food distribution organization that prioritizes innovation, expansion, and high-quality.

Key Responsibilitie

• sManage a team of 10 professionals, including Purchasing Category Managers, Buyers, Planners, and logistics/inventory specialists
• .Develop and execute comprehensive supply and purchasing strategies for cost savings, and supplier diversity
• .Monitor protein markets to identify emerging trends, price fluctuations, and potential risks
• .Lead pricing strategies by analyzing market data, supplier costs, and internal margin goals to ensure competitive and profitable pricing structures
• .Standardize procurement processes to improve efficiency, and ensure best practices are consistently applied
• .Mentor, coach, and develop the procurement tea
• mNegotiate contracts and pricing agreements with suppliers to secure term
• sConduct regular reviews of cost structures, identifying opportunities for operational savings and cost-efficiency improvements without compromising quality
• .Support strategic initiatives aimed at optimizing the supply chain, including introducing new technologies, streamlining processes, and improving vendor performance metrics

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Qualificatio

• nsBS/BA is required; ideally in Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Engineering or an equivalent of 15 years of related protein purchasi
• ng10 years of procurement experience with a focus on protein commodities (e.g., beef, pork, chicken, seafood, lamb and related products
• ).3 years of leadership experience, managing a team of purchasing and planning professionals in a meat or a food service / distribution environme
• ntExperience purchasing other products including oils, eggs, sauces and other restaurant products would be a pl
• usStrong knowledge of protein industry vendors and commodity markets, and hedging, including experience with major supplier
• s.Proven expertise in supplier negotiation and relationship managemen
• t.Proficiency with ERP systems; advanced analytics software and database experience, PowerBi is a pl
• usDemonstrated financial acumen, including budgeting and cost analysi
• s.Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to manage cross-functional team
• s.High energy and proactive mindset, with the ability to adapt to market changes and handle multiple priorities effectivel

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Apply today and lead the way in transforming procurement at the organizati