Cold Storage Recruiting
CEO/Founder of Cold Storage Recruiting | Specialized Talent Solutions for Cold Storage & Temperature-Controlled Logistics.
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Overview A leading food distribution company is seeking a seasoned
Category Manager – Protein
to lead sourcing and procurement strategy for its protein category. This high-impact, cross-functional role focuses on optimizing supply chain performance, managing supplier relationships, and driving profitability through effective category management.
The ideal candidate has deep protein sourcing expertise, strong negotiation skills, and a proven track record of delivering results in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities Category Strategy & Procurement
Develop and execute strategies to optimize cost, quality, and service for the protein category
Lead supplier consolidation and product standardization initiatives
Ensure procurement activities align with overall business and supply chain goals
Supplier Management & Negotiation
Source, evaluate, and manage domestic and international protein suppliers
Negotiate pricing, payment terms, freight, rebates, and other contractual incentives
Conduct supplier performance evaluations and product cuttings
Build and maintain strategic supplier relationships
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with Sales, Operations, R&D, and Finance to define specifications, forecast demand, and implement sourcing strategies
Serve as the primary purchasing contact for internal teams and account managers
Provide subject matter expertise on protein sourcing across the organization
Financial & Operational Management
Monitor and optimize KPIs, including inventory levels, COGS, margins, and payment terms
Ensure pricing accuracy and support audits and financial reporting
Manage vendor returns, billbacks, and invoice resolutions
Identify and implement procurement process improvements
Market Intelligence & Analytics
Track market trends, pricing dynamics, and supply chain developments
Leverage market research and spend analysis to guide sourcing decisions
Identify opportunities for cost reduction and performance improvement
Team Leadership
Lead, coach, and develop buyers or sourcing specialists within the protein categoryOversee cross-functional projects and ensure timely execution of initiatives
Compliance & Quality Control
Manage product recalls, monitor expiration dates, and oversee proper disposal
Ensure adherence to internal policies and regulatory requirements
Other Duties
Perform additional responsibilities as needed to support strategic objectives
Qualifications Education
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field (required)
Professional certifications (e.g., CPSM, CPM) preferred
Experience
Minimum 5 years in procurement, sourcing, or category management
At least 2 years of direct protein or food-related sourcing experience
Proven success in contract negotiation and vendor performance management
Skills & Competencies
Proficient in procurement platforms (SAP, Ariba, MXP)
Strong analytical, negotiation, and decision-making skills
Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities
Advanced proficiency in Excel and Microsoft Office Suite
Why Join Us
Strategic Impact:
Own a high-value category and drive measurable business outcomes
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Partner with key departments across the organization
Career Growth:
Pathway to senior leadership and professional development
Industry Influence:
Shape supplier relationships, quality standards, and sourcing practices
Competitive Compensation:
Base salary plus performance-based bonus, up to $149,000 annually
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Cold Storage Recruiting by 2x
Get notified about new Senior Category Manager jobs in
Newark, NJ .
New York City Metropolitan Area $120,000.00-$150,000.00 1 week ago
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Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.
Direct message the job poster from Cold Storage Recruiting
Overview A leading food distribution company is seeking a seasoned
Category Manager – Protein
to lead sourcing and procurement strategy for its protein category. This high-impact, cross-functional role focuses on optimizing supply chain performance, managing supplier relationships, and driving profitability through effective category management.
The ideal candidate has deep protein sourcing expertise, strong negotiation skills, and a proven track record of delivering results in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities Category Strategy & Procurement
Develop and execute strategies to optimize cost, quality, and service for the protein category
Lead supplier consolidation and product standardization initiatives
Ensure procurement activities align with overall business and supply chain goals
Supplier Management & Negotiation
Source, evaluate, and manage domestic and international protein suppliers
Negotiate pricing, payment terms, freight, rebates, and other contractual incentives
Conduct supplier performance evaluations and product cuttings
Build and maintain strategic supplier relationships
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with Sales, Operations, R&D, and Finance to define specifications, forecast demand, and implement sourcing strategies
Serve as the primary purchasing contact for internal teams and account managers
Provide subject matter expertise on protein sourcing across the organization
Financial & Operational Management
Monitor and optimize KPIs, including inventory levels, COGS, margins, and payment terms
Ensure pricing accuracy and support audits and financial reporting
Manage vendor returns, billbacks, and invoice resolutions
Identify and implement procurement process improvements
Market Intelligence & Analytics
Track market trends, pricing dynamics, and supply chain developments
Leverage market research and spend analysis to guide sourcing decisions
Identify opportunities for cost reduction and performance improvement
Team Leadership
Lead, coach, and develop buyers or sourcing specialists within the protein categoryOversee cross-functional projects and ensure timely execution of initiatives
Compliance & Quality Control
Manage product recalls, monitor expiration dates, and oversee proper disposal
Ensure adherence to internal policies and regulatory requirements
Other Duties
Perform additional responsibilities as needed to support strategic objectives
Qualifications Education
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field (required)
Professional certifications (e.g., CPSM, CPM) preferred
Experience
Minimum 5 years in procurement, sourcing, or category management
At least 2 years of direct protein or food-related sourcing experience
Proven success in contract negotiation and vendor performance management
Skills & Competencies
Proficient in procurement platforms (SAP, Ariba, MXP)
Strong analytical, negotiation, and decision-making skills
Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities
Advanced proficiency in Excel and Microsoft Office Suite
Why Join Us
Strategic Impact:
Own a high-value category and drive measurable business outcomes
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Partner with key departments across the organization
Career Growth:
Pathway to senior leadership and professional development
Industry Influence:
Shape supplier relationships, quality standards, and sourcing practices
Competitive Compensation:
Base salary plus performance-based bonus, up to $149,000 annually
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Cold Storage Recruiting by 2x
Get notified about new Senior Category Manager jobs in
Newark, NJ .
New York City Metropolitan Area $120,000.00-$150,000.00 1 week ago
#J-18808-Ljbffr