Job Details
Skills And Tools:
Job Description
Job Summary:
The Senior Purchasing Specialist will be responsible for strategically sourcing, negotiating, and managing procurement activities for our restaurant operations. This role will focus on identifying and establishing relationships with a wide network of suppliers for food, beverages, kitchen equipment and other operational necessities. A key aspect of this position involves negotiating favorable terms, pricing, and contracts to optimize costs while ensuring consistent quality and supply. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in the F&B or hospitality industry, with a proven track record of successful supplier management and contract negotiation.
Key Responsibilities:
Supplier Identification & Development:
- Proactively research, identify, and onboard new, high-quality suppliers across various categories (e.g., fresh produce, meats, seafood, dairy, dry goods, beverages, cleaning supplies, packaging, equipment).
- Build and maintain a robust database of approved suppliers, continually seeking opportunities to expand and diversify the supplier base.
- Conduct thorough due diligence on potential suppliers, including financial stability, quality control, certifications, and delivery capabilities.
- Establish and nurture strong, long-term relationships with key suppliers.
Procurement Strategy & Optimization:
- Develop and implement strategic purchasing plans aligned with business objectives, focusing on cost reduction, quality improvement, and supply chain efficiency.
- Analyze market trends, commodity prices, and supply chain risks to inform purchasing decisions.
- Collaborate with culinary, operations, and finance teams to forecast demand and ensure timely and accurate procurement.
- Implement best practices in purchasing processes and systems to enhance efficiency and transparency.
Quality Control & Vendor Performance:
- Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for supplier performance, including quality, delivery, responsiveness, and pricing.
- Conduct regular supplier reviews to ensure adherence to standards and continuous improvement.
- Address and resolve any issues related to supplier performance, product quality, or delivery discrepancies in a timely and effective manner.
Cost Management & Reporting:
- Track and report on purchasing savings, cost variances, and overall procurement expenditures.
- Provide regular reports and insights to management on market conditions, supplier performance, and procurement initiatives.
- Identify and implement strategies to reduce waste and improve inventory turns.
Job Requirements
Experience:
- Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in purchasing or procurement, with a strong emphasis on the restaurant, hotel, or F&B industry.
- Proven track record of successfully identifying, onboarding, and managing a diverse range of suppliers.
- Demonstrated expertise in contract negotiation and management, achieving significant cost savings and favorable terms.
- Experience with purchasing software or ERP systems.
Skills:
- Exceptional negotiation and persuasion skills with a results-oriented approach.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a keen eye for detail.
- Excellent communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) is essential.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
- Knowledge of local and international food safety regulations and quality standards (e.g., HACCP, ISO 22000) is highly desirable.
Education:
- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Hospitality Management, or a related field. A Master's degree or professional certifications (e.g., CPSM, C.P.M.) are a plus.
Preferred Attributes:
- Proactive and self-motivated with a strong sense of urgency.
- Adaptable and able to thrive in a dynamic and evolving industry.
- Ethical and transparent in all business dealings.
- Passion for the culinary industry and an understanding of food quality and seasonality.