Purchasing Manager

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced Purchasing Manager to guide sourcing strategy and strengthen supplier performance in New Orleans, Louisiana. This role will shape purchasing decisions across the business by balancing cost efficiency, product standards, and supply reliability. Working closely with leadership and cross-functional teams, you will evaluate sourcing options, negotiate favorable agreements, and help build a more resilient supply chain.

Responsibilities:

• Direct strategic sourcing activities by managing competitive bid events and identifying suppliers that align with business goals.

• Oversee day-to-day purchasing operations, including processing procurement requests, issuing purchase orders, and communicating order progress to internal teams.

• Drive savings initiatives through pricing analysis, supplier negotiations, and sourcing decisions that preserve service levels and quality expectations.

• Build and maintain landed cost models to compare sourcing scenarios and support informed purchasing strategies.

• Evaluate, approve, and onboard new vendors in partnership with operational, quality, and technical stakeholders.

• Track market conditions, commodity movements, and broader economic trends to anticipate risks and adjust procurement plans accordingly.

• Prepare and present sourcing recommendations, supplier evaluations, and business cases to executive leadership.

• Lead supplier performance reviews, manage contract terms and renewals, and develop alternate sourcing options to reduce supply disruption risks.

• Partner with demand planning, research, quality, and operations teams to align procurement activity with forecasted needs, inventory strategy, and product initiatives.

• Support procurement process enhancements and tool adoption while promoting consistent purchasing practices across the organization.

• At least 5 years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, contract management, or a related purchasing function.

• Minimum of 3 years working with raw materials, agricultural products, specialty ingredients, or similar supply categories.

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Finance, or a closely related discipline.

• Proven ability to lead RFx events, negotiate contracts, and manage supplier relationships in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong understanding of cost analysis, commodity dynamics, and factors that influence sourcing strategy and total landed cost.

• Advanced proficiency with Excel and solid working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.

• Excellent organizational, analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Spanish language skills and relevant procurement certifications are considered an advantage.

For consideration, please contact Mary Wood @ Robert Half. View phone number on us.fitly.work