Procurement Manager

CITITRENDS is seeking a Procurement Manager to lead Citi Trends' strategic sourcing, vendor management, and purchasing operations across all non-merchandise categories. This role ensures the cost-effective, compliant, and timely procurement of goods and services that support Store Operations, Distribution Centers, and Corporate functions.

The Retail Procurement Manager partners cross-functionally with Finance, Store Operations, Supply Chain, Facilities, IT, and Merchandising to drive enterprise value through disciplined sourcing strategies, cost optimization, and operational excellence.

This role requires strong financial acumen, negotiation expertise, and alignment to Citi Trends' Talent 2.0 Leadership Competency Framework, emphasizing enterprise thinking, performance accountability, and collaborative leadership.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Strategic Sourcing & Vendor Management

• Develop and execute procurement strategies aligned with company goals for cost containment, service reliability, and operational effectiveness.
• Lead sourcing, negotiation, and contract management for non-merchandise categories including:
• Store fixtures and supplies
• Packaging and distribution center materials
• Signage and marketing materials
• Facilities maintenance and services
• Conduct supplier evaluations and ensure adherence to SLAs, performance standards, diversity objectives, and ethical sourcing practices.
• Build and maintain strategic vendor partnerships that drive innovation, reliability, and measurable savings.
• Manage contract lifecycle, renewals, and competitive bid processes.

1. Operational Procurement & Process Optimization

• Oversee day-to-day purchasing operations to ensure efficiency, compliance, and accuracy.
• Partner with Store Operations and Distribution Center leadership to forecast supply needs for seasonal events, promotions, and new store openings.
• Optimize procurement workflows within Workday or equivalent procurement systems.
• Ensure purchase order accuracy, invoice reconciliation, and budget alignment in partnership with Finance.
• Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives to streamline procurement operations and reduce cycle time.

1. Cost Control & Financial Analysis

• Develop and manage annual procurement budgets in alignment with enterprise financial goals.
• Conduct spend analysis and vendor performance reviews to identify cost-saving and rebate opportunities.
• Track procurement KPIs including:
• Cost savings achieved
• Contract compliance
• Vendor performance metrics
• Budget variance analysis
• Partner with FP&A and Finance to support forecasting, capital planning, and expense management.
• Document measurable savings and performance improvements for executive reporting.

1. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Project Support

• Support new store openings, remodels, and enterprise initiatives by ensuring timely sourcing and delivery of required materials.
• Partner with Facilities, IT, Supply Chain, and Merchandising on contract negotiations, vendor coordination, and project timelines.
• Contribute to enterprise-wide initiatives such as sustainability programs, supplier diversity efforts, and operational efficiency projects.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to functional leaders regarding procurement strategy and cost optimization.

1. Compliance, Risk & Sustainability

• Ensure adherence to Citi Trends' procurement policies, internal controls, and ethical standards.
• Maintain supplier compliance documentation, including insurance certificates, certifications, and risk assessments.
• Monitor vendor risk exposure and ensure contractual protections are in place.
• Drive sustainable sourcing practices aligned with corporate ESG priorities.

CITI TRENDS LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES

The Retail Procurement Manager is expected to demonstrate and model the following competencies:

Vision & Strategy

• Aligns procurement strategy with enterprise growth and long-range planning objectives.
• Anticipates cost pressures and proactively develops mitigation strategies.
• Connects sourcing decisions to overall financial and operational performance.

Enterprise Leadership

• Breaks down silos and collaborates across Stores, DC, and Corporate functions.
• Demonstrates ownership for enterprise-wide cost performance.
• Makes decisions that balance functional and enterprise priorities.

Change Leadership

• Leads procurement process improvements with clarity and structure.
• Embraces new technologies and systems to modernize procurement operations.
• Encourages adaptability and continuous improvement.

Talent & Succession

• Shares procurement best practices across functions.
• Coaches stakeholders on procurement processes and compliance expectations.
• Supports capability development in financial and vendor management disciplines.

Performance & Results

• Delivers measurable cost savings and operational efficiencies.
• Uses data and financial analysis to drive disciplined decision-making.
• Manages projects with urgency, accountability, and precision.

Influence & Presence

• Negotiates effectively and builds strong vendor partnerships.
• Communicates complex financial data clearly to leadership.
• Influences without authority through credibility and preparation.

REQUIRED SKILLS / ABILITIES

• Strong strategic sourcing and negotiation expertise.
• Advanced financial modeling and analytical capability.
• Proficiency in procurement systems (Workday, Coupa, SAP Ariba, or equivalent).
• Advanced Excel and PowerPoint proficiency.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders at all organizational levels.
• High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced retail environment.
• Strong contract administration and risk management knowledge.

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Finance, or related field required.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 7+ years of progressive procurement or sourcing experience within retail, distribution, or consumer goods environments.
• Demonstrated success in vendor negotiation, cost optimization, and contract administration.
• Experience in multi-unit or enterprise-level retail organizations strongly preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Primarily office-based with regular computer use.
• Occasional travel (up to 25%) to stores, distribution centers, or vendor locations.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced corporate retail environment.

GENERAL INFORMATION

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities.

Citi Trends provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. Discrimination or harassment of any type is strictly prohibited.