Job Title: Procurement Manager
Department: Supply Chain / Procurement
Location: Seattle, WA
Job Type: Full-Time
Position Summary
The Procurement Manager is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies that ensure the timely and cost-effective procurement of goods and services needed to support production, maintenance, and operational requirements in a food and beverage manufacturing environment. This role focuses on building strong supplier relationships, optimizing supply chain performance, and maintaining compliance with food safety and quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Procurement & Sourcing
- Develop and implement procurement strategies to meet business objectives for cost, quality, and delivery.
- Source, evaluate, and negotiate contracts for raw materials, packaging, indirect materials, MRO (maintenance, repair, operations), and capital equipment.
- Identify and qualify new suppliers, ensuring alignment with company quality and safety standards.
Supplier Relationship Management
- Manage vendor performance, including on-time delivery, quality, and service responsiveness.
- Foster collaborative partnerships with suppliers to support innovation, continuous improvement, and sustainability initiatives.
- Conduct regular supplier evaluations and audits to ensure compliance with specifications and food safety requirements.
Operational Excellence
- Collaborate with production, quality, R&D, and finance teams to forecast material requirements and manage inventory levels.
- Implement cost-saving initiatives and process improvements to enhance procurement efficiency.
- Resolve supplier-related issues to prevent production disruptions.
Compliance & Risk Management
- Ensure procurement activities adhere to company policies, regulatory requirements, and ethical sourcing guidelines.
- Monitor market trends, supply risks, and commodity price fluctuations to mitigate exposure.
- Maintain accurate procurement records, contracts, and reporting for audits.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred).
- 5+ years of procurement experience, with at least 3 years in a food and beverage manufacturing environment.
- Proven track record in strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations, and cost management.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong knowledge of procurement best practices, contract law, and supplier management.
- Familiarity with food safety regulations (e.g., FDA, USDA, HACCP, SQF).
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
- Proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret market data and trends.