The Director of Procurement is responsible for leading the procurement strategy to optimize cost, quality, and sustainability of goods and services, particularly in sourcing raw materials, packaging, and supplier relationships. This role focuses on ensuring a consistent and efficient supply chain that supports production goals while adhering to quality and safety standards within the food and beverage industry.

Hybrid: Nashville, TN**

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management

• Develop and implement procurement strategies to support the company’s goals related to cost, quality, and reliability.
• Establish, manage, and evaluate supplier relationships, ensuring alignment with the company's sustainability, ethical, and quality standards.
• Negotiate contracts and agreements with suppliers to secure favorable terms and establish clear performance standards.

Category Management & Cost Optimization

• Oversee category management to streamline procurement processes, focusing on raw ingredients, packaging, and indirect goods.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives and manage budgets, while ensuring quality, service, and regulatory compliance are not compromised.
• Monitor market trends to manage pricing volatility in raw materials and anticipate potential supply chain disruptions.

Risk Management & Quality Assurance

• Develop and implement risk management strategies, including contingency planning for sourcing critical ingredients and packaging materials.
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance and R&D teams to ensure all suppliers meet food safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Conduct regular audits and performance reviews with suppliers to drive continuous improvement.

Cross-functional Collaboration & Team Leadership

• Lead and mentor the procurement team, providing guidance, training, and development opportunities.
• Work closely with Operations, Finance, Product Development, and Marketing teams to align procurement strategies with business needs.
• Support product development efforts by sourcing new ingredients and packaging solutions as needed.

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Utilize data-driven insights to make procurement decisions, track key performance metrics, and improve procurement processes.
• Prepare and present regular reports on procurement activities, spend analysis, and supplier performance to senior management.

Qualifications:

• Education : Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Finance, or related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred.
• Experience : 8+ years in procurement or supply chain management, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role in the food and beverage industry.
• At least 6 years of food and beverage industry experience
• Skills :
• Strong negotiation and relationship-building skills.
• Deep understanding of the food and beverage supply chain, including food safety and quality regulations.
• Proficiency in procurement software and data analytics tools.
• Demonstrated leadership, project management, and strategic thinking abilities.