Procurement Manager - Europe

About the role

The Manager Procurement leads sourcing, procurement and vendor management for Chiquita's Operations and Marketing functions in Europe. The role develops and executes procurement strategies to ensure cost-effective, sustainable and reliable supply of materials, products and services supporting distribution centers, ripening centers and marketing initiatives. It reports to the Director Supply Chain and works independently while partnering with stakeholders across Operations, Marketing, Quality and Finance.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement procurement strategies for operational and marketing categories
• Source, evaluate and negotiate with suppliers to secure optimal pricing, quality, service and supply continuity
• Lead contract negotiations and manage supplier relationships to maximize value and mitigate risk
• Procure materials and services for distribution centers, ripening centers and other operational functions
• Lead sourcing and negotiations for marketing and promotional materials, including point-of-sale displays, campaigns, merchandise and related logistics services
• Conduct market and commodity analysis to identify cost-saving opportunities
• Manage inventory-related procurement and support initiatives to improve inventory turns and optimize working capital
• Monitor procurement performance, forecast requirements and report to management
• Ensure compliance with company policies, contracts and regulations, and maintain procurement, inventory and planning systems

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, Supply Chain Management or a related field
• Minimum of five years of procurement, sourcing, supply chain or related experience
• Proven experience negotiating supplier agreements and managing vendor relationships
• Experience in operational environments, preferably distribution, warehousing, manufacturing or supply chain operations
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a global environment

Required skills

• Purchasing, contract management, inventory principles and strategic sourcing
• Analytical, negotiation and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Office, particularly Excel; Oracle experience is an advantage

What we offer

• Competitive compensation and benefits package
• Work in a dynamic, international environment within the food supply chain
• A collaborative team culture focused on quality, sustainability and growth
• Exposure to global markets and international trade processes