Purchasing and Production Manager

Sodexo•Edison, NJ

13d•$75,000 - $85,000•Onsite

About The Position

Sodexo is seeking an experienced Culinary Purchasing Manager to manage purchasing operations for our food team at HMH JFK University Medical Center located in Edison, New Jersey. JFK University Medical Center is a 499 bed non-profit, acute care hospital. It is a member of the Hackensack Meridian Health system and operates as a teaching hospital for complex neurological and rehabilitation care. In this role, you’ll lead the charge in ensuring food production operations run efficiently, cost-effectively, and with a focus on quality and consistency. You’ll play a hands-on role in managing procurement, standardizing culinary systems, mentoring staff, and contributing to client satisfaction through collaborative menu development and service excellence. Accountable for managing people, setting direction and deploying resources; typically is responsible for performance evaluation, pay reviews and hire/fire decisions. Results are primarily achieved through the work of others and typically depend on the manager's ability to influence and negotiate with parts of the organization. Progression within Career Band reflects acquisition of broad technical expertise, business and industry knowledge, and process and people leadership capabilities. Accountable for business, functional or operational areas, processes or programs, which may include dotted-line or matrixed management.

Requirements

A culinary foundation with experience in high-volume production environments.
Proven expertise in inventory control, purchasing, and cost management.
Effective leadership and team development skills with a passion for coaching others.
Organizational skills, attention to detail, and comfort with digital tools and systems.
A collaborative mindset and client-focused approach to menu planning and operational support.
Associate’s degree or equivalent experience
2 years of Management Experience
1 year of Related Experience

Responsibilities

Take ownership of inventory, purchasing, and production processes to drive operational excellence.
Support a high-performing team through leadership, training, and hands-on mentorship.
Help standardize culinary procedures and implement systems that boost efficiency and consistency.
Contribute to creative menu planning aligned with client preferences and dietary needs.
Build trusted relationships with clients and team members to enhance collaboration and satisfaction.
Gain valuable experience in time management, scheduling, and labor optimization.
Thrive in a fast-paced environment where quality, innovation, and leadership are valued.