Purchasing Manager - Remote | WFH

Purchasing Manager - Iconic Global Ice Cream Brand

About Us

We are a world-renowned ice cream and frozen treats brand with a rich history dating back to 1940. Our parent company, based in Minneapolis, MN, oversees more than 7,000 independently owned and operated restaurants across the United States, Canada, and over 20 countries worldwide. We're a subsidiary of a major holding company led by one of the world's most legendary investors.

Our commitment to creating extraordinary experiences for our customers is matched only by our dedication to hiring and retaining top-tier talent. We believe that our employees are the driving force behind our success, and we recognize and reward their initiative, strategic thinking, and entrepreneurial spirit.

We're seeking motivated, passionate, and dedicated individuals who thrive on tackling big challenges and contributing to our continued growth and success.

The Opportunity

We have an exciting opportunity for a Purchasing Manager to join our team at our corporate office in Bloomington, MN. In this role, you'll play a crucial part in negotiating and managing purchasing programs with approved suppliers, ensuring our franchisees have access to high-quality products at competitive prices while maximizing profitability for our organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Supplier Negotiations and Communications:
• Negotiate pricing and freight with approved suppliers to ensure competitive prices, availability, and enhanced franchisee profitability.
• Develop and manage 1-3 year contracts to optimize costs, mitigate risks, and ensure reliable supply.
• Implement basic risk management strategies based on understanding of commodity price drivers and raw materials sourcing.
• Collaborate with marketing to support promotional calendars and ensure adequate inventory for system sales and test markets.
• Troubleshoot and resolve shipment shortages, pricing discrepancies, and production delays with manufacturers.
• Ensure supplier compliance with company standards, programs, and payment commitments.
• Work with Quality Assurance and R&D teams to address quality issues and maintain acceptable complaint levels.
• Inventory Management:
• Maintain adequate inventory levels across all distributors, preventing shortages and minimizing slow-moving or obsolete stock.
• Analyze sales data and promotional history to optimize inventory distribution.
• Identify and evaluate alternative suppliers for key items to ensure supply chain resilience.
• Manage multiple limited-time offers (LTOs) and product tests within your area of responsibility.
• Data Management and Business Planning:
• Maintain accurate pricing and product information in our Arrowstream platform.
• Contribute to long-term product launch strategies by advising on ordering timeframes, technical aspects of freight and shipping, and risk management opportunities.
• Forecast price and case movement for your product area, typically representing $40-$60M in annual sales.
• Update product cost-based commodity forecasts for use in franchisee menu pricing recommendations.
• Industry Analysis and Communication:
• Monitor, analyze, and draw conclusions from market trends and industry data.
• Stay informed about key commodity trends affecting product costs and work proactively to minimize negative impacts.
• Communicate price changes and significant industry information to franchisees and corporate employees.
• Research and stay current on new and alternative suppliers in the industry.
• Special Projects and Events:
• Assist in planning supplier participation for annual company events.
• Source products and alternative suppliers to support long-term sales growth goals and R&D/Marketing initiatives.
• Participate in cross-functional teams to drive product improvements and cost savings.
• Collaborate with various departments to resolve quality and service complaints from franchisees and field staff.
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Economics, or a related field.
• 5-8 years of relevant business experience, including at least 5 years in purchasing.
• Expertise in one or more of the following areas: packaging, protein, produce, dairy, commodities, oils, sauces, bakery, or confectionary.
• Experience in restaurant industry purchasing, including basic commodity risk management strategies and raw material formula pricing.
• Strong negotiation skills and familiarity with risk mitigation strategies.
• Excellent analytical and forecasting abilities.
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, PowerBI, and ArrowStream.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to travel 5-10% of the time for industry events and supplier visits.
  
  

What We Offer

• A comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, 401(k) match, and paid time off.
• Hybrid work schedule with 2 in-office collaboration days per week (for Bloomington-based positions).
• A culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Opportunities for growth and development within a globally recognized brand.
  
  

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and value the strength that diversity brings to the workplace. All qualified applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.

Join our team and be part of creating sweet memories for millions of customers worldwide!

Employment Type: Full-Time