Director of Procurement & Strategic Sourcing
BASIC FUNCTIONS
This full-time, on-site Director of Procurement & Strategic Sourcing role is based in Lawrence, MA. The director oversees end-to-end procurement activities for ingredients, packaging, and indirect materials to ensure consistent supply, optimal quality, and competitive pricing. Responsibilities include developing and executing sourcing strategies, leading vendor selection and performance management, and negotiating contracts to support both cost efficiency and risk mitigation. The role manages procurement processes in alignment with production, operations, and supply chain teams, ensuring materials are available to meet production schedules and food safety standards. Day-to-day work includes analyzing spend, monitoring market trends, coordinating with finance on budgeting and forecasting, and continuously improving procurement policies and systems. The director also leads or supports cross-functional projects related to new product launches, process improvements, and strategic initiatives that enhance operational efficiency.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Strategic Procurement Leadership: Develop and implement procurement strategies to optimize cost savings, operational efficiency, and supply chain resilience.
- Sourcing & Purchasing: Manage the end-to-end procurement process — from requisition to delivery — for raw materials, packaging, and indirect supplies.
- Vendor & Supplier Management: Lead supplier qualification, audits, and compliance with food safety and regulatory standards; negotiate contracts and pricing.
- Hedging Strategies: Contract coverage, forward buy opportunities where applicable.
- Inventory & Supply Chain Oversight: Monitor inventory levels, safety stock, and MRP/ERP accuracy; coordinate with production and planning to ensure timely material availability.
- Market & Risk Management: Track market trends, cost changes, and supply risks to guide purchasing decisions; mitigate supply chain disruptions.
- Cost Optimization: Drive initiatives to reduce procurement costs without compromising quality or compliance.
- Team Leadership: Manage and mentor procurement, sourcing, and supply chain staff; foster cross-functional collaboration with production, quality, finance, and logistics.
- Support for Commercialization Process: Provide sourcing, costing, and material readiness support for new product development.
- Supplier Performance & KPI Management: Supplier Scorecards, Cost Competitiveness, food safety compliance
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Business, Operations, or related field; advanced degree or certifications (e.g., CSCP, CPSM) preferred.
- Experience: 5+ years in purchasing or supply chain, with at least 4 years in food manufacturing or CPG; progressive leadership experience.
- Tech Skills: Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems (Microsoft D365.) and procurement software.
- Ability: To operate effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, with changing production priorities and customer-driven demand variability.
- Negotiation & Analysis: Strong negotiation, vendor management, and analytical skills; ability to forecast demand and maintain optimal stock levels.
- Compliance & Risk: Understanding of food safety regulations, logistics, freight, and warehouse operations.
BENEFITS
- PTO: 2 Weeks
- 401 K: Up to 5%
- Health/Dental /Vision: BCBS Mass Life/AD&D Insurance
- Phone Allowance