Purchasing Manager - Washington State Ferries

Sodexo Live! (Salary)•Seattle, WA

22d•Onsite

About The Position

The Purchasing Manager plays a critical role in supporting Sodexo Live!'s mission to deliver exceptional guest experiences by ensuring that all food, beverage, and operational supplies are available, cost-effective, and meet the highest quality standards. This position is responsible for managing all aspects of procurement, receiving, inventory, and warehouse operations, while fostering strong partnerships with vendors and internal teams. The Purchasing Manager will oversee purchasing staff and warehouse operations, ensuring compliance with food safety and workplace safety standards, accurate inventory management, and efficient product flow to support daily operations in catering, concessions, banquets, retail, premium, and beverage. Success in this role requires strong leadership, attention to detail, and the ability to balance cost control with quality and operational needs. As a strategic partner to the Director of Operations, General Manager, and broader operations team, the Purchasing Manager contributes directly to financial performance, operational efficiency, and guest satisfaction. This role is ideal for a detail-oriented, hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced, event-driven environment and takes pride in building processes that drive consistency, reliability, and profitability.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Hospitality, or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
1+ years of purchasing, inventory, or warehouse management experience, preferably within food and beverage, hospitality, or venue operations.
Experience managing staff and leading teams in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations.
Financial acumen with experience in budgeting, cost analysis, and P&L accountability.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and purchasing/inventory management systems.
Strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
Highly organized, self-motivated, and able to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
Able to work effectively and safely while subject to wet floors, temperature extremes and excessive noise; must be able to lift up to 50 pounds in weight; must be able to maneuver in an often tightly-quartered environment.

Responsibilities

Assist with procurement, vendor management, and inventory operations across all lines of business.
Source, negotiate, and manage vendor relationships to ensure quality, reliability, and competitive pricing.
Evaluate and recommend new products, suppliers, and purchasing methods to improve quality, reduce costs, and enhance profitability.
Monitor vendor compliance with contracts, delivery schedules, food safety, and service standards.
Partner with finance to ensure accurate invoice reconciliation and resolve discrepancies.
Oversee receiving, storage, and distribution of products, ensuring compliance with health department and food safety regulations.
Implement and monitor inventory control systems, conduct regular audits, and minimize shrinkage and waste.
Ensure proper maintenance of warehouse equipment and facilities to support safe, efficient operations.
Utilize purchasing and inventory systems to track trends, costs, and performance.
Oversee commissary operations and commissary staff.
Lead, train, and develop drivers and warehouse staff, fostering a culture of accountability and teamwork.
Partner with the Director of Operations, General Manager, and operations teams to align purchasing strategies with menu needs, event schedules, and financial targets.