Smallwares, Category Manager

Brinker International • Coppell, TX

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Smallwares Category Manager owns Brinker’s strategy, sourcing, and end-to-end category management of all Smallwares for Chili’s and Maggiano’s. This role is accountable for product quality, continuity of supply, and total cost optimization while driving standardization, innovation and operational efficiency across both brands,

This position will lead strategic supplier partnerships and collaborate cross-functionally with Marketing, Culinary, Operations, Distribution, QA, Finance and Franchise partners to deliver cost-effective, strategic solutions that support restaurant operations and elevate our guests’ experience.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business or related field (or equivalent in experience, skills and training)
• 5+ years of supply chain experience in the restaurant or hospitality industry required
• Strong understanding of product raw materials (e.g., stainless steel, copper, plastics, etc.) and global supply markets
• Proven success in strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations, and contract management
• Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, Word and ERP systems (Oracle preferred)
• Strong analytical skills with ability to translate data into clear business decisions and recommendations
• Excellent communication and influencing skills across cross-functional and leadership audiences
• Highly organized with strong project management skills; ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize accordingly
• Self-starter with a proactive, ownership mindset that thrives in a fast paced and dynamic environment

Nice To Haves

• Experience sourcing Smallwares or similar non-food categories strongly preferred

Responsibilities

• Own and execute the Smallwares category strategy for Chili’s and Maggiano’s, balancing product quality, continuity of supply, cost, standardization and innovation
• Serve as a thought partner to internal stakeholders (e.g., Marketing, Culinary, Ops), delivering innovative, operationally sound solutions to address complex product and business challenges
• Lead end‑to‑end strategic sourcing initiatives, including supplier identification, vetting, and execution of RFIs/RFPs, while leveraging Brinker’s scale and purchasing power
• Drive product standardization to reduce operational complexity and optimize cost and inventory
• Evaluate, onboard, and continuously assess supplier performance based on quality assurance, production capacity and scalability, financial stability and geographic coverage
• Partner with Distribution to align production planning and inventory positioning at supplier facilities, ensuring continuity of supply while minimizing obsolescence risk
• Manage day‑to‑day category execution, including product sourcing, testing, rollouts, replenishment activities, and resolving smallware‑related operational issues
• Provide recurring updates to Supply Chain and cross-functional leadership on sourcing initiatives, supplier innovation and category risks
• Analyze and leverage complex data to support negotiations and contract development, delivering sourcing recommendations grounded in sound financial and business judgment
• Ensure all supplier agreements meet Brinker’s legal, risk, and compliance standards
• Stay informed on industry and macroeconomic trends, raw material dynamics, category innovation, best‑in‑class suppliers and competitor activity
• Maintain full compliance with Brinker’s Code of Business Conduct in all supplier and distributor interactions

Benefits

• Flexibility that fits your life: Hybrid schedules with weekly flex days to work from home.
• Benefits that support you: Competitive package with medical, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; 401(k) with company match; Employee Assistance Program with counseling, financial, legal, and life resources; and Best You EDU, offering education programs and tuition reimbursement.
• Enjoy our brands: Generous dining discounts at Chili’s® Grill & Bar and Maggiano’s Little Italy®.
• Rewards for your impact: Annual bonus eligibility for every RSC Team Member.
• Wellbeing at work: On-site gym and fitness classes like yoga and boot camp.
• A culture worth celebrating: From company-wide events to a casual, collaborative atmosphere, you’ll find plenty of ways to connect, work hard, and play hard.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees