Category Manager

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Own category and supplier relationship management for assigned spend categories (approximately $20M–$30M), including 90–120 SKUs
• Execute sourcing strategies that balance cost, quality, service, reliability, and supply risk
• Lead and support RFP/RFQ processes including supplier evaluation, data analysis, and recommendation development
• Identify and execute cost savings opportunities and sourcing initiatives that drive year over year financial improvement
• Maintain supplier relationships and performance across assigned categories
• Conduct regular supplier business reviews to assess quality, delivery, cost, and compliance performance
• Support negotiation and execution of supplier agreements including pricing, service terms, and commercial structures
• Maintain contract documentation including agreements, amendments, NDAs, and related supplier records
• Develop contingency plans to mitigate supply risk, including sole source exposure
• Partner with R&D, Marketing, Operations, Quality, and Finance to support sourcing needs for LTOs, innovation, and new concept development
• Provide insights on supplier performance, market trends, and supply risk factors to internal stakeholders
• Support product commercialization efforts by identifying supplier options and evaluating sourcing feasibility
• Ensure supplier compliance with Bagel Brands quality, regulatory, and certification standards
• Analyze spend, supplier performance, and market data to support sourcing decisions and category insights
• Maintain accurate tracking of supplier performance metrics and sourcing outcomes
• Support process improvement initiatives within procurement and category management functions
• Provide clear, accurate reporting to Supply Chain leadership and cross-functional partners

Leadership Competencies (Manager)

• Effective Communication: Communicates clearly and concisely with cross-functional partners, translating sourcing data, supplier information, and market insights into actionable recommendations. Adapts communication style based on audience.
• Accountability and Ownership: Takes ownership of category performance, supplier outcomes, and sourcing deliverables. Follows through on commitments and proactively addresses gaps or risks.
• Adaptability and Perseverance: Responds effectively to shifting priorities, supply market changes, and ambiguity. Maintains focus on execution and outcomes despite challenges or constraints.
• Empowerment: Works collaboratively with internal partners and suppliers. Shares knowledge, supports decision making, and contributes to shared outcomes across the organization.
• Curiosity: Continuously seeks to understand supplier capabilities, market trends, and sourcing opportunities to improve cost, quality, and service outcomes.
• Self-Awareness: Seeks feedback, understands personal impact, and adjusts approach to strengthen partnerships and effectiveness across stakeholders.

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in strategic sourcing, category management, or procurement in food, beverage, packaging, or restaurant environment
• Experience in multi-unit, multi-brand, or multi-region organizations preferred
• Strong experience in supplier negotiations, sourcing strategy development, and contract management
• Strong analytical and financial acumen with ability to interpret market data and model cost impacts
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Strong organizational skills with ability to manage multiple priorities independently
• Effective communication skills and ability to work in a matrixed environment