Job Overview:
As the Strategic Sourcing Director specializing in food and beverage ingredients, you will lead and manage the strategic sourcing efforts for ingredients used across our product lines. Your role is pivotal in ensuring that our supply chain remains efficient, cost-effective, and aligned with our company's quality standards and sustainability goals. You will work closely with cross-functional teams including R&D, quality assurance, and production to optimize ingredient sourcing strategies and build strong supplier partnerships.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Sourcing:
- Develop and implement strategic sourcing strategies for food and beverage ingredients, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives.
- Analyze market trends, supplier performance, and ingredient quality to make informed sourcing decisions.
- Identify and evaluate potential suppliers, negotiate contracts, and establish long-term partnerships.
Cost Management:
- Develop and manage budgets for ingredient procurement, optimizing cost-efficiency while maintaining quality and supply security.
- Monitor and analyze ingredient pricing trends and market dynamics to achieve cost savings and mitigate risks.
Supplier Relationship Management:
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure reliable supply and support for new product development.
- Conduct regular supplier performance reviews and implement corrective actions as needed to address performance issues.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Collaborate with R&D and quality assurance teams to understand ingredient requirements and ensure sourcing strategies meet product specifications and regulatory standards.
- Work with production teams to forecast ingredient needs and manage inventory levels effectively.
Risk Management:
- Identify and assess supply chain risks related to ingredient sourcing, including geopolitical, environmental, and economic factors.
- Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies to ensure continuity of supply and minimize disruptions.
Sustainability and Compliance:
- Ensure that sourcing practices align with the company's sustainability goals and industry best practices.
- Stay informed about relevant regulations and standards affecting ingredient sourcing and ensure compliance.
Data Analysis and Reporting:
- Utilize data analytics to drive decision-making and improve sourcing strategies.
- Prepare and present reports on sourcing performance, market trends, and cost savings to senior management.
Qualifications:
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Food Science, or a related field. An advanced degree or professional certification (e.g., CPSM, CSCP) is a plus.
- Experience: Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in strategic sourcing or procurement, with a focus on food and beverage ingredients. Proven track record in supplier management, contract negotiation, and cost reduction.
- Skills:
- Strong analytical and negotiation skills with the ability to drive cost-saving initiatives.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build effective relationships with internal teams and external suppliers.
- Proficiency in procurement software and tools, as well as data analysis and reporting.
- Knowledge of industry regulations, quality standards, and sustainability practices in the food and beverage sector.
