Manager, Direct Strategic Sourcing

Job Purpose

Reporting to the Director, Strategic Sourcing, the Manager, Direct Strategic Sourcing has a critical role in the procurement of food and beverages.  This role oversees the purchasing of core products and materials directly from the manufacturer.  This critical role is responsible for developing sourcing strategies that ensure cost efficiency, quality, and sustainability in our supply chain.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic sourcing plans for all direct materials, including food ingredients, produce, beverages, and packaging.
• Conduct market analysis to identify suppliers, assess quality, and negotiate favorable terms and contracts.
• Understand all commodity aspects of your product lines and conduct RFP/RFQ’s to obtain best value for the business
• Collaborate with culinary and operations teams to align sourcing strategies with menu development and operational needs.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure reliability and quality of products.
• Monitor supplier performance and conduct regular assessments to drive continuous improvement.
• Analyze purchasing data to identify trends, opportunities for savings, and potential risks in the supply chain.
• Stay updated on food industry trends, regulations, and best practices to inform sourcing decisions.
• Develop and implement sustainability initiatives within the sourcing strategy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Culinary Management, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• 5 years of experience in strategic sourcing or procurement within the food and beverage industry.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills with a proven track record of achieving cost savings.
• Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and make informed decisions.
• Proficient in sourcing and procurement software tools.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Knowledge of food safety standards and supply chain management principles.
• Experience in meeting with vendors, presenting to groups, and developing business strategies to expand current services and identify new opportunities.
• Intermediate computer skills required (MS Office: Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel, Word)

Working Conditions

• Required travel – up to 25%

Physical Requirements

• While performing this job, the incumbent is regularly required to stand, sit, talk hear & use hands and fingers to operate keyboards

Direct Reports

• This position will have no direct reports