Protein Category Manager

Position Overview:

The primary focus of this role is to identify and secure reliable domestic and international sources for the company's protein category. The successful candidate will be responsible for sourcing protein commodities and recommending cost-effective alternatives that meet or exceed quality standards. This will be achieved through close collaboration with suppliers, internal leadership, and the sourcing team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a strategic plan for the protein category aimed at reducing costs and enhancing product quality and service levels, with a focus on supplier consolidation and product standardization.
• Manage all purchasing activity and requests related to protein, ensuring alignment with supply chain protocols and thresholds.
• Act as a subject matter expert in protein sourcing, providing guidance to the sourcing team or escalating to leadership when needed.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to define product specifications and forecast demand, ensuring sourcing decisions align with business needs.
• Lead and support Sourcing Specialists in executing strategic sourcing initiatives through cross-functional team engagement.
• Build and maintain strategic supplier relationships to drive long-term value and performance.
• Work with the Spend Analysis & Reporting team to identify opportunities for category optimization through market research and other analytical methods.
• Ensure a deep understanding of the supply market and contribute to the development of innovative supplier and customer strategies.
• Continuously identify and recommend improvements within the protein category to relevant stakeholders.
• Conduct product evaluations and cuttings in accordance with company procedures.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education:
Bachelor's degree in Business or a related field is required. An MBA or equivalent advanced degree is preferred. Professional certifications such as Certified Purchasing Manager are highly desirable.

Experience:
5-7 years of experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, contract negotiation, performance analysis, and category management. At least 2 years of direct experience in food or protein sourcing is required.

Skills & Knowledge:

• Proficiency with automated logistics and procurement systems, ideally MXP and SAP.
• Strong grasp of strategic sourcing principles and the ability to apply them pragmatically.
• Proven ability to develop and execute category strategies and lead cross-functional sourcing teams.
• Experience in supplier relationship management and contract negotiation.
• Familiarity with procurement analytics tools and spend management systems.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and conflict resolution capabilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Procure-to-Pay platforms like Ariba.
• Willingness to travel up to 20% domestically and internationally.