Director, Category Management

Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end category management performance, organizational leadership, and strategic direction for the function.
• Define department vision, priorities, and long-term objectives aligned to NDCP and member value creation.
• Oversee portfolio outcomes across cost optimization, innovation, and risk mitigation.
• Build and maintain strong alignment with NDCP extended leadership team (ELT) and key partners across Dunkin’ and Inspire.
• Develop organizational capability including hiring, coaching, development, retention, and succession planning.
• Lead supplier strategy including enterprise supplier partnerships and sourcing strategies to maximize value, service, and scalability.
• Advance operational excellence by driving continuous improvement, standardization, and adoption of enabling technologies to enhance productivity and efficiency.
• Own supplier strategy, lead enterprise supplier partnerships and sourcing strategies to maximize value, service, and scalability.
• Develop and deliver clear, data-driven insights and updates for executive leadership and Board-level audiences.
• Interface and collaborate with Dunkin’/Inspire Brands New Store/Remodeling teams, R&D, Operations Services, and its franchisees to provide optimum cross-functional planning and execution of Category Management functions.
• Prepare and execute RFI, RFQ, and RFP events, analyze responses, and work with internal counterparts to achieve best award decision.
• Prepare executive summary with results.
• Locate, analyze, develop, and maintain efficient and effective supplier base to meet current and future needs of all purchased materials and services.
• Standardize and continuously improve category management and supplier processes in line with NDCP operating standards and SAP workflows.
• Partner with Finance, Accounting, and Operations to ensure sourcing decisions, contracts, and supplier programs translate correctly into SAP transactional and financial outcomes.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of experience in category management and strategic sourcing including supplier, cost, risk, and relationship management.
• Proven track record of success leading, motivating, and developing teams and individuals.
• Bachelor’s degree is preferred in supply chain or business/finance.
• Strong financial acumen, process orientation, and technology forward mindset.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, and Power Point).
• Collaborative, “team first” approach with proven ability to develop strong business relationships and manage effectively.
• Excellent communicator, both written and verbal.
• Proven organizational and project management capabilities including ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proactive and dedicated with a drive for quality and results.
• Experience with a purchasing cooperative, foodservice distributor, franchise system, or within the foodservice/restaurant industry is a plus.