Procurement Innovation Specialist

Hy-Vee, Inc. • West Des Moines, IA

1d

About The Position

Supports procurement innovation initiatives with a primary focus on Specialty and HealthMarket categories. Leads research, supplier discovery, and item evaluation efforts to identify emerging products, trends, and vendor partners that enhance Hy-Vee’s differentiated assortment. Collaborates with Category Managers, Merchandising, and cross-functional teams to evaluate new item opportunities, strengthen supplier partnerships, and drive strategic assortment expansion within the Procurement department.

Requirements

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills required.
• Commitment to the Hy-Vee Mission and a willingness to promote the values of the company.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• An ability to relate to and interact with other people in a friendly, professional manner.
• Ability to identify problems, develop and execute solutions.
• Visual requirements include: ability to see detail at near and far range with or without correction.
• Must be physically able to perform light work: occasionally lifting or carrying objects of no more than 20 pounds, and frequent standing or walking.
• Must be able to perform the following physical activities: stooping, kneeling, reaching, handling, grasping, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, marketing, or a related field preferred.
• 2–4 years of experience in procurement, sourcing, category management, product development, or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Leads the research and identification of innovative Specialty and HealthMarket product opportunities, emerging brands, and supplier partners aligned with Hy-Vee’s strategic procurement objectives.
• Independently analyzes market trends, consumer behavior, competitive landscapes, and industry innovations to develop recommendations that influence purchasing decisions and assortment strategy.
• Owns and manages the end-to-end new item onboarding and evaluation process, ensuring required documentation, cost analysis, margin expectations, and compliance requirements are complete and accurate.
• Identifies, evaluates, and recommends new or alternative suppliers based on quality, differentiation, financial viability, innovation potential, and alignment with Hy-Vee standards and values.
• Partners with Category Managers and Merchandising to support go-to-market planning, product launches, and promotional alignment for Specialty and HealthMarket items.
• Assists in negotiating and reviewing cost structures, product specifications, and supplier capabilities in coordination with Procurement leadership.
• Monitors performance of newly onboarded items and vendors, providing data-driven insights and recommendations for expansion, rationalization, or improvement.
• Participates in industry trade shows, supplier meetings, and innovation forums to identify emerging trends and sourcing opportunities.
• Manages multiple innovation and sourcing initiatives simultaneously, ensuring timelines, priorities, and deliverables are met with minimal supervision.
• Supports cross-functional collaboration with Quality Assurance, Supply Chain, Marketing, Finance, and Store Operations to ensure seamless product introduction and ongoing supplier performance.
• Performs other strategic and analytical duties as assigned to support procurement innovation and long-term growth objectives.

What This Job Offers

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