Procurement Analyst

Aramark•Chicago, IL

3d•$70,730 - $75,000

About The Position

Aramark Student Nutrition provides food and nutrition services to over 350 school districts in the U.S. It offers public and private education institutions a variety of dining options including breakfast and lunch programs, after-school snacks, catering, nutrition education and retail operations. We partner with schools to create culinary experiences that propel students to success. Our goal is to provide healthy, nutritional meals with a stellar dining experience for our communities. The Procurement Analyst is responsible for driving data-informed procurement and inventory decisions to optimize supply chain performance within Student Nutrition. This role leads advanced analysis of purchasing, inventory, and vendor performance to improve cost efficiency, product availability, and operational effectiveness. The Procurement Analyst oversees inventory management and procurement processes, ensuring accurate data, appropriate stock levels, and timely product availability across distribution channels. This role partners closely with vendors, operations teams, and leadership to align supply with program needs, support procurement activities, and mitigate supply chain risks. Additionally, the role ensures data integrity across procurement and inventory systems and maintains compliance with food safety standards and organizational policies.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience)
Experience with inventory management systems and procurement tools
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
Proficiency in Excel or data analysis tools
Knowledge of food safety standards (HACCP, FIFO) preferred

Responsibilities

Analyze procurement, inventory, and vendor data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities to improve operational and financial performance
Monitor and report on key performance indicators such as fill rates, substitution rates, cost variance, inventory turns, and days-on-hand
Lead inventory optimization initiatives to ensure appropriate stock levels, minimize shortages and overages, and improve overall efficiency
Manage and maintain inventory levels across field locations and distribution channels, ensuring alignment with demand and program needs
Conduct inventory reconciliations and oversee physical counts to ensure accuracy of inventory records and resolve discrepancies
Manage procurement systems, order guides, and product master data, ensuring accurate product setup and data integrity
Perform cost analysis and support pricing evaluations to reduce spend and improve financial outcomes
Identify and implement process improvements across procurement, inventory management, and reporting workflows
Assess supply chain risks and develop mitigation strategies related to shortages, substitutions, and market fluctuations
Collaborate cross-functionally with distribution, culinary, nutrition, and field operations teams to align supply with business requirements
Ensure adherence to food safety and inventory standards, including FIFO, HACCP guidelines, temperature controls, and proper product handling practices
Provide guidance on inventory management practices to schools and distribution partners, including par levels and product utilization
Perform additional procurement and operational duties as needed to support business objectives