Essential Duties and Responsibilities (to include but not limited to):

• KEY CATEGORY MANAGEMENT
  • Perform category management including strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, contract, RFP, performance and risk management for key ingredients.

  • Plan and execute effective negotiation processes with vendors for strategic ingredients. Establish supply contracts where required, including legal reviews.

  • Address vendor issues to ensure the highest level of service delivery.

  • Maintain contractual and business relationships with vendors.

  • Facilitate implementation of procurement change initiatives within category to improve business performance.

  • On-Boarding of suppliers in accordance with the Company Policies.

• PROCUREMENT LEADERSHIP
  • Executes, under the direction of the VP Procurement and Supply Chain, annual cost reduction goals and implements strategies to maximize savings.

  • Leads, on behalf of the Procurement Department, all budget activities to support the budget and quarterly forecasts processes.

  • Proactively supports quality initiatives and documentation requirements as needed. Maintains confidentiality of information appropriately.

• BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
  • Ability to travel internationally and domestically up to 50% during crop harvest seasons.

  • Work with Category Managers in understanding the global spend and identifying opportunities to increase quality, decrease risks, and maintain high service levels.

  • Develop best procurement practices to sustain fast growth.

  • Develop and maintain expert knowledge of respective global supply markets, competitors, and product innovations.

  • Summarize and report world supply updates of key citrus (orange, lemon, lime, grapefruit), packaging (boxes, PET and HDPE bottles), and puree products.

• OTHER
  • Leads by example to actively promote ethical business behavior and organizational values.

  • Establishes supplier networks, attends educational workshops, shows active interest in understanding the food and beverage industry, performs appropriate online research, reviews professional publications, and participates in professional societies to continuously develop progressive supply relationships. Implements and manages Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) for the Company.

  • Build strong relationship with operations and other stakeholders. Represent the department on new product development and product enhancement programs to ensure effective sourcing of raw materials to meet specifications, material requirements, and pricing from suppliers that provide technical and manufacturing expertise.

• Other duties as required and/or assigned.