Purpose:
The Procurement Director is responsible for managing all procurement activities of Carolina CoPacking within the food manufacturing sector, ensuring compliance with FDA, USDA, SQF and BRC regulations. This role involves sourcing, negotiating, and purchasing ingredients, packaging, and other materials essential for food production. The Procurement Specialist will collaborate closely with suppliers, Quality Assurance, Production, Innovation and Regulatory teams to ensure that all procurement processes adhere to applicable standards and contribute to the efficient and cost-effective operation of the manufacturing process.
Job Skills, Experience, and Knowledge Requirements:

Skills and Competencies

• Strong negotiation and communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
• Proficient in procurement software and highly proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Ability to collect, analyze and interpret data to make informed procurement decisions.
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality and compliance.
• Ensure all operations comply with all applicable regulations and standards.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of all applicable guidelines and industry best practices.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Certifications

• Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) is preferred.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in procurement, preferably in the food manufacturing industry.
• Knowledge of regulations and compliance requirements for food manufacturing.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment, including:

• • Exposure to loud noise
• Temperature variations
• Standing for extended periods of time.

Sourcing and Supplier Management

• Identify, evaluate, and maintain relationships with suppliers, maintaining multiple suppliers for each raw material.
• Negotiate contracts, terms, and pricing with all suppliers and vendors.
• Develop, implement, and maintain a Strategic Procurement Plan in conjunction with Go to Market’s forecasted throughput and revenues.

Procurement Operations

• Manage all processes involved with procurement of raw materials and manage inventory levels.
• Coordinate material needs with the production team, ensuring timely and complete acquisition of all materials.
• Track procurement metrics and report on performance, recommend changes to improve processes and performance.

Compliance and Quality Assurance

• Ensure materials meet all applicable regulations and standards.
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance to address material quality and safety of procured materials.
• Maintain appropriate documentation for regulatory compliance, inclusive of supplier and ingredient audits.

Cost Management and Optimization

• Analyze market trends for cost-saving opportunities.
• Recommend and implement procurement related cost reduction strategies across all activities.
• Prepare cost analysis reports, recommending any actions to improve the cost of materials.

KPI Responsibilities

• Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for the procurement department.
• Monitor supplier performance against established KPIs.
• Report on procurement performance metrics, such as cost savings, order accuracy, and supplier reliability.

Cross-functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with production, innovation, quality assurance, and logistics teams.
• Function as a subject matter expert for the implementation in all procurement related IT platforms.

Support new product development with material sourcing.
Benefits:
Immerse yourself in a diverse range of comprehensive benefits that cater to your health and well-being. From top-notch medical, vision, and dental coverage to ensure you are in the best shape, to our 401K plan that secures your future, we have got you covered. Take time away from work and enjoy paid time off and special “dream” days that allow you to recharge and pursue your passions. Join us for exciting company events that bring us together as a team, fostering camaraderie, building confidence, and optimizing positive morale. And do not forget about your personal and professional growth – our education reimbursement program allows you to invest in yourself and elevate your skills.