Category Manager

Are You Ready For a Dynamic Role In Procurement?Join the UPGC team as a Procurement Category Manager and lead a thrilling journey of strategic impact! Elevate your career by making your mark in the dynamic world of procurement as a vital member of our team.Develop advanced category plans, optimize costs, and ensure a seamless supply chain. Take the lead in collaborating with renowned brands like KFC, Taco Bell, and Pizza Hut.UPGC, a certified Great Place to Work for six years, is a Canadian powerhouse supporting iconic brands. Spearhead purchasing and distribution for our franchisees' restaurants and become a part of a dynamic team committed to excellence. Apply now!Role Summary:In this role, you'll be the driving force behind developing and optimizing category plans, ensuring a continuous supply chain, and fostering collaborative relationships with suppliers, brands, and the Franchisee community to enhance stakeholder value. Your responsibilities will include managing assigned categories within UPGC, specifically, processed protein category, identifying opportunities for strategic collaboration with brands and Franchise Partners, and leading the Sourcing Process for Services in alignment with UPGC Management. Your commitment to act in the best interest of all brands and brand partners across the system will be crucial. Adaptability is key, as categories may evolve to meet business needs.KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Manage the Procurement for assigned categories, specifically, processed protein category, at the best combination of quality, cost, economic order quantity (EOQ) and delivery.Manage sourcing process from Data collection, through RFP, Analysis, Negotiations and Execution striving always for best cost, quality and service achieved.Manage day-to-day aspects of category, including but not limited to pricing, shortages, transportation, promotions, shelf life, etc.Maintain, evaluate, and expand qualified reliable alternate and/or secondary sources of supply.Develop and execute buying and distribution strategy for assigned categories.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.Manage supplier performance and ensure credible value driven relationships are built and maintained.Oversee the Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) process efficiently, including planning, implementation, and monitoring to ensure smooth operations.Use all available sources to determine market trends that may affect prices; maintain timely and accurate knowledge of materials and accurate up-to-date cost records. Ensure that accurate data on changing costs is properly forwarded to key personnel.Complete an assessment of Risk Protocol utilized and enhance it for the purpose of ensuring we are managing category risks and have continuity plans across UPGC.Develop contingency and risk mitigation strategies and implement plans.Complete monthly LE’s and 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. Provide reports as needed to the Brand and/or Board of Directors.Prepare Board presentation documentation for assigned categories for all brands.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.Manage multiple projects at different stages of their procurement & execution lifecycle.Attend meetings held by various stakeholders, present, provide input and recommendations as a representative of UPGC as well as bring pertinent information back to the team for action.Travel domestically as needed to trade shows; current and prospective suppliers for process familiarization, cost negotiations to build relationships and for general business needs.Other duties as assigned.CORE SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:Strong knowledge of and experience with processed protein sourcing, including industry standards, supplier evaluation, and quality control practices.Project Management and excellent planning skills.Organizational & time management skills with ability to prioritize responsibilities.Experience in buying and successful negotiations.Experience developing Category Strategies is an asset.Detail oriented with strong analytical skills and excellent mathematical aptitude.A creative thinker with excellent problem-solving skills with ability to analyze situations and develop proactive solutions.Excellent interpersonal and relationship building skills.A flexible individual that works well under pressure.Team Player who interacts well with all management levels.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.5 - 7 years’ experience in a similar capacity, preferably in either food manufacturing or food service industry.Experience in the Food Services Industry, with a specialty in processed protein, including a deep understanding of sourcing, supply chain management, and market trends specific to protein products.Actively working towards their SCMP – Supply Chain Management Professional, SCMA or equivalent.Intermediate to Advanced computer skills with entire Microsoft platform.Experience in the restaurant industry and consumer goods.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 accommodation for people with disabilities. #J-18808-Ljbffr