Strategic Sourcing Manager

Aramark•Philadelphia, PA

About The Position

Sourcing Manager I is responsible for the planning and execution of contracting initiatives that result in successful executed Agreements that support the needs of all business sectors across the Aramark and Avendra Group portfolio. The Manager will develop a strategy to conduct the initiative that leverages best practices and sound processes. Also, the role requires judgment to adapt negotiations and processes which enable a successful Agreement. Additionally, the Manager will oversee a portfolio of contracts in which s/he will ensure the supplier meets their Agreement commitments and that customers’ needs are being met. S/he will partner closely with other managers on the team where supplier and category responsibilities overlap and must be able to work collaboratively without relying on formal direction. Position reports to the Senior Director, Strategic Sourcing, and will collaborate closely—with a dotted line relationship—to the other Dairy Category Manager.

Requirements

General sourcing/procurement experience, or the ability to learn quickly and effectively if all other requirements are met.
Ability to navigate in a matrix environment - balanced decision-making, functional excellence while maintaining business priorities
Experience negotiating contracts and understanding of the negotiation process (understanding facts, presenting alternatives and thinking creatively)
Ability to build strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders
Strong ability to analyze data and translate findings into clear, actionable steps; must demonstrate attention to detail and work efficiently while ensuring outputs remain thoughtful and accurate.
Leverage AI tools to support informed decision-making and to optimize or automate routine tasks, allowing greater focus on building supplier relationships and ensuring customers are supported with robust, well managed contracts.
Ability to prioritize high impact projects while recognizing when to pivot so that all key priorities are effectively supported.
Works autonomously while exercising sound judgment on stakeholder alignment, ensuring the appropriate audience is engaged at the right level.
Excellent written/verbal communication and presentation skills
Strong attention to detail and process orientation
Ability to be assertive to ensure Aramark needs are met
At a minimum intermediate Microsoft Word and PowerPoint. Intermediate expert skills in Microsoft Excel.
5-15 years of experience in business management (operational or management consulting) with an understanding of procurement, contracting, supply chain optimization and/or category management
BS/BA in relevant field or equivalent years' experience with education in supply chain, business, economics, hospitality or related field highly desired.

Responsibilities

Thoughtfully plan contract initiatives for all facets of the enterprise; manages annual plan by creating realistic timelines and meeting milestones, communicates initiative status; leads effective supplier negotiation and pricing strategy development efforts which integrates Aramark and the Avendra Group’s principles and value proposition.
Implement all aspects of client development teams for initiatives as needed, i.e., identify the correct participants, solicit input at the appropriate times, lead meetings, etc.
Lead business ownership activity for his/her portfolio of contracts.
Build and maintain supplier relationships; hold suppliers accountable to deliver contractual commitments.
Develop expertise within the Dairy category and leverage internal and external networks to support both client and customer needs.
Collaborate with other internal departments to ensure contracts are delivering maximum potential.
Leverage internal stakeholder relationships to increase volume and open the door for additional opportunities for strategic supplier partners.
Conduct continuous gap analysis to identify areas of opportunity and drive ongoing improvement and category coverage
Collaborate with clients as needed.
Assist with the development of category strategies in his/her area of responsibility.