Job Purpose

The Manager, Strategic Sourcing will be responsible for the procurement strategy for our Produce and Distribution & Logistic categories, overseeing approximately $300 million in annual spend.  This leader will be a procurement professional with knowledge on these markets, analyzing trends, mitigating supply risk based on forecasted demand, actively developing deep relationships with current and potential suppliers, working cross-collaboratively with our supply chain team, culinary, QA, and other key internal groups, and executing a strategic procurement plan to ensure that Panera obtains the highest quality products/services at a competitive price. 

Personal competencies for success include the ability to master both strategic and operational issues, efficiently manage multiple competing priorities, exhibit outstanding teamwork and collaboration skills, excellent communication, negotiation and relationship skills, and the demonstrated ability to manage through transformational change.

Location

St. Louis hybrid role with at least three days a week in office.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

The Manager, Sourcing will manage these specific contracts (produce, distribution & logistic) with our third-party providers at Panera. 

Category ManagementFully understand third party services contracts with subject matter knowledge in:Commodity knowledge (Produce)Distribution, logistics services, and overarching supply network optimizationCost driversUsage and forecastsNew product developmentDevelop and own the category cost plan; monitor and maintain performance for the yearRecognize, cultivate, and lead cost savings measures to the system and Panera LLCNegotiate the lowest price based on based on deploying the most profitable response to our demand in consideration of our product specifications, quality, service levels, and industry conditionsWork together with cross-functional partners such as Supply Chain, QA, Operations, Culinary, Finance to provide project visibility and allow for cross functional alignment and execution of Sourcing projectsDevelop long term strategic roadmap to competitively position Team Panera, addressing Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), business/supply continuity, and mutual value creation with key suppliersSupplier ManagementGrow, maintain, and establish strong supplier business relationshipsActively solicit supplier performance feedback from Team PaneraEnhance supplier development by communicating Team Panera’s performance standards measures anddevelop joint improvement initiatives (product, process, etc) as neededConduct and lead regular business review sessions with our supplier partners in order to inform and align them with Panera’s strategy for managed productsDevelop and ensure up to date management of supplier contingency plans and strategy in the event the primary supplier is unable to perform as required (quality, delivery, spec adherence, etc)Ensure we have supplier contracts and pricing agreements detailing costs and pricing methodologyCoordinate with Panera’s Supply Management team in determining optimal supplier locations and delivery methodsCoordinate the execution of new product (permanent or LTO) introductions in the Panera system—taking into account production lead times, MOQs, and contingency

Qualifications (Education & Experience)

Qualifications include:

EducationCollege degree in Business, Supply Chain, or an associated Field and/or an equivalent combination of education and experience is requiredSpecialized knowledgeContract negotiationStrategic sourcingSkillsExceptional critical thinking skills with strategic mindsetAbilitiesFinancial understanding of company and department measuresOther personal characteristicsAbility to adapt easily to rapidly changing situations and priorities. Comfortable adjusting concepts to fit new situations.Comfortable delivering feedback to both supplier partners and internal partners while maintaining a good relationship,leading to effective resultsProfessional CertificationNone requiredExperience5+ years of experience in Procurement, Supply Chain, or Strategic Sourcing5+ years of Direct/Indirect Services Procurement experience or equivalent is required with at least 5 years of >$300M spend oversightDemonstrated contract negotiation experience with positive financial and supply outcomes

Working Conditions

Required travel – 15%

Physical Requirements

While performing this job, the incumbent is regularly required to stand, sit, talk hear & use hands and fingers to operate keyboards.

Direct Reports

This position will be an individual contributor managing a network of suppliers.
Additional Description :