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.
