Director of Procurement & Strategic Sourcing

Artisan Chef Manufacturing Co. • Full-time • Lawrence, MA, US • 22h ago

ABOUT US |

Artisan Chef Manufacturing Co. is a multifaceted food manufacturer specializing in scratch-made artisan breads, fresh pastas, gourmet sauces, authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, calzones, and restaurant-quality prepared meals. The company is dedicated to high-quality ingredients, culinary craftsmanship, and consistent product excellence. Its diverse product portfolio serves a range of foodservice and retail partners looking for premium, ready-to-use offerings. Team members collaborate in a fast-paced, production-focused environment where quality, safety, and innovation are core priorities. This setting offers professionals the opportunity to contribute directly to the growth and reputation of a high-end prepared foods brand.

BASIC FUNCTIONS|

This full-time, on-site Director of Procurement & Strategic Sourcing role is based in Lawrence, MA. The director oversees end-to-end procurement activities for ingredients, packaging, and indirect materials to ensure consistent supply, optimal quality, and competitive pricing. Responsibilities include developing and executing sourcing strategies, leading vendor selection and performance management, and negotiating contracts to support both cost efficiency and risk mitigation. The role manages procurement processes in alignment with production, operations, and supply chain teams, ensuring materials are available to meet production schedules and food safety standards. Day-to-day work includes analyzing spend, monitoring market trends, coordinating with finance on budgeting and forecasting, and continuously improving procurement policies and systems. The director also leads or supports cross-functional projects related to new product launches, process improvements, and strategic initiatives that enhance operational efficiency.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES |

Position also includes, but is not limited to the following:

Strategic Procurement Leadership: Develop and implement procurement strategies to optimize cost savings, operational efficiency, and supply chain resilience.
Sourcing & Purchasing: Manage the end‑to‑end procurement process — from requisition to delivery — for raw materials, packaging, and indirect supplies.
Vendor & Supplier Management: Lead supplier qualification, audits, and compliance with food safety and regulatory standards; negotiate contracts and pricing.
Hedging Strategies: Contract coverage, forward buy opportunities where applicable
Inventory & Supply Chain Oversight: Monitor inventory levels, safety stock, and MRP/ERP accuracy; coordinate with production and planning to ensure timely material availability.
Market & Risk Management: Track market trends, cost changes, and supply risks to guide purchasing decisions; mitigate supply chain disruptions.
Cost Optimization: Drive initiatives to reduce procurement costs without compromising quality or compliance.
Team Leadership: Manage and mentor procurement, sourcing, and supply chain staff; foster cross‑functional collaboration with production, quality, finance, and logistics.
Support for Commercialization Process: Provide sourcing, costing, and material readiness support for new product development.
Supplier Performance & KPI Management: Supplier Scorecards, Cost Competitiveness, food safety compliance

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS |

Education: Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Business, Operations, or related field; advanced degree or certifications (e.g., CSCP, CPSM) preferred.
Experience: 5+ years in purchasing or supply chain, with at least 4 years in food manufacturing or CPG; progressive leadership experience.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems (Microsoft D365.) and procurement software
Ability: To operate effectively in a faced paced manufacturing environment, with changing production priorities and customer driven demand variability
Negotiation & Analysis: Strong negotiation, vendor management, and analytical skills; ability to forecast demand and maintain optimal stock levels
Compliance & Risk: Understanding of food safety regulations, logistics, freight, and warehouse operations

KEY COMPETENCIES |