Director Strategic Sourcing - Produce

Aramark Corp. • Philadelphia, PA

48d • $140,000 - $170,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Director, Strategic Sourcing - Produce, leads a team responsible for sourcing and managing fresh produce and value-added produce categories within Aramark's Strategic Sourcing organization. This role requires a strategic, analytical approach to supplier management, cost transparency, and category innovation. The Director will develop and execute sourcing strategies that deliver value, quality, and sustainability for Aramark's clients and operations.

Requirements

• Strong technical sourcing and negotiation skills, with a focus on produce categories.
• Detail-oriented, innovative thinker with strong analytical and project management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to lead, coach, and motivate a team of professionals.
• Experience developing category and product knowledge in produce, including value-added and specialty items.
• Ability to develop contracts that meet client business needs and drive value.
• Strong relationship-building skills at all levels within Aramark, GPOs, clients, and suppliers.
• 10+ years in strategic sourcing, with significant experience in produce or foodservice categories.
• BS/BA in a relevant field or equivalent experience; Master's preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the produce sourcing team to identify trends, opportunities, and new categories that create value for all Aramark entities and its clients.
• Develop and document category strategies for fresh produce and value-added produce, including pack size standardization, cost transparency (FOB, packaging, processing), and supply chain optimization.
• Maintain deep knowledge of produce markets, including seasonality, distribution channels, cost structures, and industry trends.
• Incorporate Aramark's business model and customer needs into sourcing strategies, ensuring alignment with sustainability and food safety standards.
• Manage, coach, and mentor a team of sourcing professionals, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Oversee contract negotiations, supplier selection, and relationship management to ensure high-quality, cost-effective supply.
• Partner with internal stakeholders (Culinary, Operations, QA, Sustainability) to develop and roll out produce programs.
• Monitor team initiatives, provide regular updates to leadership, and ensure timely execution of sourcing projects.
• Serve as the technical expert in produce sourcing for client and supplier meetings.
• Identify and implement best practices in produce sourcing and supply chain management.
• Lead supplier negotiations and pricing strategy development for complex produce agreements.
• Ensure collaboration with internal departments, clients, and suppliers to maximize contract success.
• Address competitive issues, pricing strategies, supplier performance, and innovation within produce categories.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders across Aramark, GPOs, clients, and suppliers.
• Support business ownership activities and promote the use of sourcing tools and analytics.
• Respond to client requests and ensure high levels of customer satisfaction.

Benefits

• Aramark offers comprehensive benefit programs and services for eligible employees including medical, dental, vision, and work/life resources. Additional benefits may include retirement savings plans like 401(k) and paid days off such as parental leave and disability coverage. Benefits vary by location and are subject to any legal requirements or limitations, employee eligibility status, and where the employee lives and/or works.
• Flexible work arrangements
• Generous PTO, Vacation and 9 paid holidays
• Volunteer days, community partnerships, Employee Assistance Program
• Employee discounts on select services and products
• Your choice of three medical plan tiers, two carriers to choose from & My Healthy Changes well-being program
• Adoption Assistance & Paid Parental Leave
• Tuition Funding Sources and Scholarship Programs
• Retirement plan (401K or SIRP for those eligible) with match on annual contributions

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Industry: Food Services and Drinking Places
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees