Director Procurement-Protein

About the role

The Director of Procurement - Protein Commodities is an expert in protein purchasing and supports restaurant operations with priorities of quality, food safety, and price. This role oversees day-to-day sourcing and contracting functions for protein items and plays a critical role in forecasting market conditions, managing vendor relationships, and ensuring cost-effective procurement strategies.

Position can be Remote or Hybrid schedule depending on selected candidate's experience.

Responsibilities

• Negotiate purchases for protein items in all formats, with primary responsibility for pork, chicken, and dairy, and serve as back-up for beef procurement. Preference will be given to those displaying comprehensive knowledge of beef cuts.
• Analyze protein markets to forecast company needs, product availability, and cost of goods sold.
• Review, evaluate, and approve product specifications for issuing and awarding business.
• Monitor inventories and purchase spot products when necessary or advantageous.
• Manage audits of pricing received for applicable product categories.
• Develop purchasing procedures that ensure quality standards while minimizing costs.
• Support operations and distribution partners by resolving purchasing and distribution issues.
• Partner with Food Safety to address quality and safety matters related to protein sourcing.
• Research and source alternate vendors, coordinating evaluations, testing, and approvals.
• Collaborate with Culinary and cross-functional partners on continuous cost improvement initiatives.
• Review product claims, ensure payment accuracy, and coordinate corrective actions with suppliers.
• Resolve vendor grievances and claims.
• Represent the company in supplier negotiations and contract formulation.
• Prepare reports and presentations on market conditions, costs, and forecasts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business, economics, supply chain, food science, animal science, agricultural business, or a related field
• 7+ years of progressive purchasing, sales, or pricing experience in proteins or other perishable food categories, including negotiation and pricing analysis
• Experience working with protein suppliers, processors, packers, or production facilities
• Experience procuring protein products such as pork, chicken, dairy, or beef

Benefits

• Best-in-class benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 100% paid maternity leave
• Generous time off including vacation, parental, donor, and bereavement leave
• Wellness perks like on-site personal trainers, massages, a full gym, and a registered nurse
• Convenience services like car detailing, dry cleaning, and even spray tans
• Financial support with 401(k), tuition reimbursement, stock units, and holiday bonuses
• Delicious perks from Willie’s Joynt-our full-service cafe serving up legendary meals
• Support Center employees who meet benefit eligibility receive a comprehensive total rewards package starting the first day of the month after 31 days of employment.

Schedule

Position can be Remote or Hybrid schedule depending on selected candidate's experience.