Position: Head of Procurement

Reporting to: CFO

Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid)

About Nonni's

Founded in 1988 as a homage to an Italian grandmother, Nonni's Food Group is the leading Biscotti maker in the world and a recognized producer, marketer, and distributor of branded premium specialty cookies and healthier baked goods in North America. Our brands include Nonni's®, THINaddictives®, and La Dolce Vita®, which are found in grocery, mass, club, and online retailers everywhere.

Position Overview

The Head of Procurement is a strategic leader responsible for overseeing the procurement of ingredients and packaging necessary for Nonni's production. This executive role will develop and implement procurement strategies, manage supplier relationships, ensure compliance with food safety standards, and optimize business value while maintaining quality. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, this position will collaborate closely with operations, finance, quality assurance, and logistics to ensure a seamless supply chain.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Supply Chain Optimization

Develop and implement procurement strategies to ensure the timely and cost-effective acquisition of ingredients and supplies
Manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and evaluate supplier performance
Monitor market trends and identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements
Conduct risk assessments and develop contingency plans to mitigate supply chain disruptions
Prepare and manage procurement budgets, forecasts, and reports

Compliance & Quality Management

Ensure compliance with food safety standards and regulations
Partner with quality assurance to maintain ingredient and packaging specifications
Implement sustainable procurement practices aligned with company values
Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes and systems

Cross-Functional Leadership

Collaborate with production, quality assurance, and logistics teams to ensure a seamless supply chain
Present strategic insights and recommendations to executive leadership
Serve as the company's subject matter expert on procurement and supplier management
Coordinate with finance on cost projections and budget planning

Team Leadership

Lead and mentor the procurement team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement
Establish clear performance metrics and drive accountability
Ensure team members have the tools, training, and resources needed to excel
Create a culture of analytical excellence and professional development

Qualifications

Experience

7+ years of progressive experience in procurement, preferably within the food industry
Proven track record of leading successful procurement initiatives and supplier management
Strong understanding of food safety standards and regulations
Experience managing complex procurement projects and negotiations
Prior director-level experience preferred

Skills & Abilities

Strategic vision with ability to translate market intelligence into executable procurement strategies
Advanced negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills
Exceptional leadership skills with demonstrated ability to influence across organizational levels
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
Proficiency in procurement software and tools
Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams

Education

Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, or related field required
MBA or related advanced degree strongly preferred

Working Conditions

Hybrid work arrangement based in Chicago office
Approximately 20% travel required to visit suppliers, manufacturing sites, and key business locations

Compensation

Competitive compensation package including base salary, annual performance bonus, 401(k), insurance, etc.

Nonni's Bakery is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique talents and perspectives. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Our approach thrives on diverse viewpoints and backgrounds. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply.

Nonni's Bakery

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Head of Procurement