THE ROLE:The Procurement Manager - Ingredients (Flavors and Juices) is responsible for sourcing and managing ingredients to ensure cost efficiency, quality, and uninterrupted supply. This role oversees procurement activities across flavors, colors, major concentrated juices with support of all other ingredients, leveraging market insights and supplier partnerships to support business objectives. Reporting to the Vice President, Procurement, this position partners cross-functionally with other internal teams to drive cost savings, support packaging initiatives, and maintain supply continuity across all Harvest Hill business units.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Category & Market Management
- Monitor ingredients commodity markets (e.g., juices, oils,) and provide insights and recommendations on pricing, cost trends, and supply conditions
- Support the development and execution of sourcing strategies to optimize cost, quality, and service levels
- Forecast material pricing trends and track performance against market benchmarks and budgets
Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management
- Lead sourcing events including RFIs, RFQs, and RFPs; evaluate supplier proposals and negotiate pricing and contract terms
- Manage supplier relationships, including performance tracking, issue resolution, and continuous improvement initiatives
- Identify and implement cost savings and value creation opportunities across the ingredients portfolio
- Maintain supplier contracts, pricing agreements, and compliance documentation
Supply Continuity & Risk Management
- Partner with suppliers and internal stakeholders to ensure consistent material availability and mitigate supply risks
- Identify potential supply disruptions and develop contingency plans and alternative sourcing strategies
- Monitor and resolve pricing discrepancies, supply issues, and service challenges
Operational Execution
- Maintain accurate item pricing, supplier data, and procurement records within ERP and related systems
- Support day-to-day purchasing activities to ensure timely delivery of materials aligned with production needs
- Analyze procurement data to support reporting and decision-making
- Work closely with internal stakeholders to understand material requirements and align sourcing solutions
- Participate in special projects and initiatives as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE: - Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or a related field
- 5+ years of purchasing or procurement experience, preferably within direct materials or manufacturing environments
- Experience sourcing ingredients (e.g., flavors, juices, colors) strongly preferred
- Knowledge of procurement processes including sourcing, contract negotiation, and supplier management
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret market trends and pricing data
- Excellent communication and relationship management skills
- Proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross-functional environment
Job Location: This position is based in Stamford, CT.
Travel: Domestic US, up to 10%
Applicants must have, or be able to obtain through company sponsorship, authorization to work in the United States.
