Associate Strategic Sourcing Category Manager

Smithfield Foods • Smithfield, VA

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

The position summary states the general nature and purpose of the job. Overall accountabilities are defined in this section. As an Associate Strategic Sourcing Manager, you will support the development and execution of sourcing strategies across key spend categories. Working closely with cross-functional teams and senior sourcing leaders, you'll assist in optimizing costs, maintaining supplier performance, and enhancing operational efficiency. This role blends tactical procurement execution with collaborative project support to help advance Smithfield’s sourcing initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university and 3+ years or relevant experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
• Experience acting as a lead by providing training, coaching or mentoring to less experienced staff or through managing a process or project.
• Understanding of basic sourcing practices and procurement processes. Exposure to contract terms and supplier negotiations is a plus.
• Strong analytical abilities paired with clear and professional written/verbal communication.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); experience with SAP or similar ERP systems preferred.
• Comfortable working in cross-functional teams and supporting multiple projects simultaneously.

Nice To Haves

• Exposure to contract terms and supplier negotiations is a plus.
• Experience with SAP or similar ERP systems preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support Category Strategy Execution: Assist in implementing sourcing strategies and supplier selection processes under the guidance of senior sourcing managers.
• Conduct Supplier Research & Analysis: Help identify potential suppliers and perform market research to evaluate pricing, quality, and capabilities.
• Coordinate Cross-Functional Activities: Partner with internal teams to gather requirements and ensure procurement efforts are aligned with operational needs.
• Track and Report Cost-Saving Projects: Monitor ongoing cost reduction initiatives and prepare reports to highlight savings and performance metrics.
• Participate in Contract Management: Provide support during contract negotiations, review draft agreements, and ensure proper documentation.
• Maintain Supplier Relationships: Assist with supplier communications and help resolve basic performance or compliance issues.
• Collaborate on Process Improvements: Work with teams to improve procurement processes, data accuracy, and sourcing documentation.
• Leadership: Drives a positive employee experience through leadership by way of employee development and coaching.

Benefits

• Robust, flexible and affordable benefit plans and programs to support our team members and their loved ones.
• Out-of-pocket costs, on average, 20 percent less than plans offered by other employers.
• Be Well programs offer tools and resources to enhance your quality of life, at no additional cost.
• Support for elective surgeries, weight loss, mental health, cancer, kidney disease, diabetes, smoking cessation, asthma, maternity management and more.
• Comprehensive training and professional development programs designed to help you reach your full potential.
• LinkedIn Learning: on‑demand courses, professional certificates, and skill‑based training.
• Partnership with Guild supports continuing education with tuition assistance covering English language learning, high school completion, and degree programs.
• Leadership development initiatives nurture high‑potential talent.
• Smithfield Scholarship Program for employees’ children.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level