Procurement Category Manager, Commodities (Food And Beverage)

POSITION TITLE: Procurement Category Manager, Commodities

EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Permanent

LOCATION: Vaughan, Ontario

SUMMARY OF THE ROLE:

The primary objective of this role is to develop effective plans and strategies for food and beverage commodities and categories, optimizing costs, managing risk, and ensuring a continuous supply. We aim to foster innovation and establish strong, collaborative relationships with suppliers, brands, and the Franchisee community, ultimately driving stakeholder value. Additionally, the incumbent will diligently identify and report on market data and trends for key agricultural commodities, such as oil, flour, pulp & paper, cheese, beef, chicken, and resins, supporting both owned categories and other Category Managers. They will strive to expand our category influence within UPGC and seize opportunities to leverage scale and collaborate with the Brand and our Franchise Partners in the Sourcing Process. Throughout our endeavors, we consistently prioritize the best interests of all brands (KFC, Taco Bell & Pizza Hut) and brand partners across the system. Please note that categories may be subject to change based on business needs and to ensure better alignment of responsibilities within the team.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

· Purchase products, commodities, consumables and/or services at the best combination of quality, cost, supply, and delivery while understanding the cost drivers and making informed decisions within that category that are aligned to UPGC Supply Chain Governance. Maintain timely and accurate records. Manage day-to-day aspects of category, including but not limited to pricing, shortages, transportation, promotions, shelf life, etc.

· Develop and execute buying and distribution strategy for categories outlined.

· Primary researcher on the key commodities: including trends, data analysis, understanding new season production, global supply and demand, stock to use ratios, carry-over stocks.

· Provide reports/documents/graphs in support of procurement strategies (e.g., Spend analysis, Contracts Coverage, Market intelligence)

· Ensure components contract prices are properly managed and tracked. Support Procurement team members to build the cost bars on strategic purchases and help with breaking down the Supply Chain into its component parts.

· Provide recommendations on the upside / downside risk within a commodity to be used by the Procurement Team and Management

· Build the knowledge bank on the key commodities, CPI and USD

· Research, review and analyze the effectiveness and efficiency of the existing process and develop strategies to enhance or further leverage the process.

· Lead supplier discussions related to negotiations and/or issues pertaining to the contract terms. Conduct semi-annual/annual business reviews with suppliers in conjunction with members of the Procurement/Supply Chain teams.

· Prepare Board presentation documentation for assigned categories for all brands as required.

· Meet Financial responsibility as set out in aligned AOP for assigned categories.

· Support a culture of accuracy, urgency and on-time, on-budget project delivery while having fun.

· Develop contingency and risk mitigation strategies and implement plans.

· Work collaboratively with all team members within the UPGC umbrella to embrace a culture of information sharing and teamwork in support of continuous improvement across all brands.

· Obtain guidance, coaching and mentoring from your manager in relation to core objectives, brand interaction, core category strategies and people development.

· Unlock the value of supplier-based innovation, collaborating with both suppliers and the Brands.

· Partner cross-functionally with RSC supporting overall Canadian brand business and strategic initiatives.

· Keep abreast of economic conditions, business situations, new materials and techniques that affect your categories and the UPGC business.

· Complete the Annual Operating Plan (AOP) by managing and maintaining up-to-date costs/expenses on a period basis ensuring to remain on track through constant review.

· Attend meetings held by various stakeholders and be prepared to present and provide input and recommendations as a representative of UPGC.

· Other duties as assigned.

CORE SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

· Commodities Management experience

· Project Management and excellent planning skills

· Superior verbal & written communication and presentation skills

· Organizational & time management skills with ability to prioritize.

· Experience in negotiations and contracting.

· Experience developing Category Strategies

· Knowledge of quality assurance philosophies, practices, and techniques are an asset.

· Detail oriented with strong analytical skills.

· A creative thinker with the ability to problem-solve and to analyze situations to develop proactive solutions.

· Excellent interpersonal and relationship building skills.

· Team Player who interacts well with all levels of management.

· Must be able to work professionally to resolve problems (both internal & external) in a fair and ethical manner while maintaining a positive working relationship and protecting the long-term interests of the company.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

· Community College Diploma or University degree in Business or equivalent work experience.

· 6+ years’ experience in a similar capacity, preferably in either food manufacturing or food service industry

· Solid understanding of commodity, food and/or packaging sourcing is an asset.

· Supply Chain Management Professional, SCMA or equivalent is an asset.

· Intermediate to Advanced computer skills with entire Microsoft platform

WORKING CONDITIONS:

· Primarily in an open office environment and closed testing facilities (test kitchen), standing for extended periods of time

· Travel domestically and internationally as required.

UPGC Inc is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. In addition, UPGC is committed to providing accommodations for people with disabilities.

Candidates being considered for the position will be required to do some testing, provide evidence of education as well as personal and professional references.