Strategic Sourcing Director

Role Overview

The Strategic Sourcing Director will lead the development and execution of comprehensive procurement strategies covering a variety of food ingredients ranging from staple commodities like oils and dairy to specialized components such as spices, flavors, proteins, and additives. This critical role influences product excellence, innovation initiatives, profit margins, and the robustness of the supply chain. Collaboration with cross-functional teams including Supply Chain, Quality, Research & Development, Culinary, and Sales departments is essential to fulfill consumer demands while securing a competitive market edge amidst fluctuating global conditions.

The company serves a broad clientele encompassing retail, foodservice, and restaurant sectors. Expertise in procuring ingredients tailored for Quick Service Restaurants (QSR) or Fast-Casual dining concepts is particularly advantageous given the need for rapid responsiveness, adaptability, ongoing product refinement, and synergy with culinary and innovation teams to satisfy evolving consumer tastes. The position reports directly to the Senior Vice President of Supply Chain.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and oversee procurement plans for multiple ingredient categories with a focus on optimizing cost-efficiency, quality standards, and sustainability.
• Conduct continuous market analysis to track global commodity trends, identify supply risks, and uncover growth opportunities.
• Manage supplier relationships including selection, evaluation, and qualification processes; nurture partnerships with suppliers, co-manufacturers, and brokerage networks to maximize profitability and cost benefits.
• Lead contract negotiations to secure advantageous terms, ensure regulatory and quality compliance, and minimize risk exposure.
• Drive initiatives that reduce costs without compromising product innovation and quality.
• Collaborate closely with R&D, Culinary, Operations, Marketing, and Finance teams to support new product launch, maintain ingredient availability, and mitigate supply challenges.
• Promote sustainable and ethical sourcing practices aligned with environmental responsibilities and corporate policies.
• Oversee procurement technology and workflow enhancements, including ERP, Supplier Relationship Management systems, and RFx processes to improve operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• 8 to 12 years of experience in strategic sourcing and procurement within the food, beverage, or agricultural commodity sectors.
• Bachelor's degree required; a master's degree is preferred in a related discipline.
• Ability to work remotely or from the company's Innovation Center located in Jacksonville, Florida.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 20%, involving visits to manufacturing facilities, supplier premises, and industry conferences.
• Proficiency with Excel and other procurement-related software systems.
• Experience supervising at least one direct report.

Skills and Competencies

• Demonstrated track record in strategic procurement for food ingredients, especially experienced with QSR or Fast-Casual brand requirements.
• Solid negotiation abilities complemented by strong analytical and financial acumen, understanding ingredient pricing mechanisms and market dynamics.
• Proven capability managing substantial budgets and navigating complex global supply networks.
• Expertise in risk assessment and supplier performance management.
• In-depth knowledge of sustainable procurement methods and adherence to food safety and environmental law.
• Leadership skills in managing procurement teams effectively.

About Rubix Foods

Rubix Foods is a comprehensive product development firm equipped with full manufacturing capabilities. By integrating culinary creativity, food science, and consumer insights, they accelerate innovation for top-tier brands through a seamless product journey from concept to market launch, emphasizing exceptional service, meticulous execution, and consistent high-quality results.

Their Vision is to be the premier resource for the food industry, renowned for promptness, reliability, and quality. The mission is to tackle the industry's most challenging problems with creativity, collaboration, speed, and excellence.

Additional Information

Candidates must have legal authorization to work in the United States and cannot require visa sponsorship now or in the future.