Manager, Strategic Sourcing - Orlando Based

Red Lobster

Orlando, Florida

JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Analysis Skills, Business Solutions, Business Strategy, Candidate Sourcing, Category Development, Category Management, Communication Skills, Continuous Improvement, Contract Negotiation, Corporate Compliance, Cost Analysis, Cost Control, Cross-Functional, Decision Support, Distribution Services, Finance, Financial Operations, Forecasting, Industry/Trade Analysis, Inventory Estimates, Inventory Management, Inventory Planning, Leadership, Logistics, Maintain Compliance, Market Tracking, Marketing, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Word, Multitasking, Negotiation Skills, Operational Support, Operations Processes, Order/Customer Fulfillment, Performance Management, Performance Metrics, Policy Implementation, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Problem Solving Skills, Process Improvement, Procurement Planning, Procurement Strategy, Product Development, Product Pricing, Product Programs, Product Reviews, Product Support, Product/Service Launch, Profit & Loss, Project/Program Management, Promotional Programs, Purchasing/Procurement, Quality Assurance, Regulatory Compliance, Relationship Management, Request for Information (RFI), Request for Proposals (RFP), Risk Management, Sales Management, Sourcing Strategy, Strategic Planning, Supplier Relationship Management (SRM), Supply Chain, Supply Chain Operations, Team Player, Time Management, Vendor/Supplier Evaluation, Vendor/Supplier Management, Vendor/Supplier Planning, Vendor/Supplier Quality Management, Vendor/Supplier Relations, Vendor/Supplier Selection, Vendor/Supplier Sourcing, Willing to Travel, Writing Skills
LOCATION
Orlando, Florida
POSTED
30+ days ago
Overview:

***Must live in Orlando and be in office 4 days a week***

 

 

The Manager, Strategic Sourcing plays a key role in supporting the profitability, growth, and operational success of the organization by developing and executing sourcing and procurement strategies across assigned product categories. This role is responsible for managing supplier relationships, negotiating agreements, supporting cross-functional business initiatives, and ensuring continuity of supply while balancing cost, quality, and service expectations.

The Manager, Strategic Sourcing will work collaboratively with internal teams including Operations, Finance, Marketing, Quality Assurance, Supply Chain, and Logistics to align sourcing strategies with overall business objectives. This position requires strong analytical, negotiation, communication, and relationship management skills, along with the ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

The successful candidate will be responsible for developing category strategies, managing supplier performance, supporting inventory and risk management initiatives, and identifying opportunities for process improvement and cost optimization.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Develops sourcing and procurement strategies and execution plans:

  • Identifies, evaluates, and selects suppliers in accordance with company standards and approval processes
  • Develops and executes short-, mid-, and long-term sourcing strategies that support company objectives and operational needs
  • Manages medium- to high-complexity spend categories and supplier relationships
  • Identifies and delivers cost savings and value improvement opportunities
  • Conducts cost analysis and develops pricing and forecasting models
  • Prepares, executes, and manages Requests for Information (RFIs), Requests for Proposals (RFPs), and supplier negotiations
  • Collaborates with suppliers and internal stakeholders to support forecasting, inventory planning, and continuity of supply
  • Monitors inventory coverage and communicate risks, opportunities, and supply updates to leadership teams

 

Leverages market and supplier knowledge for effective sourcing:

  • Builds and maintains strong supplier relationships through effective communication and collaboration
  • Monitors market conditions, industry trends, commodity movements, and supply risks to support strategic decision-making
  • Evaluates supplier capabilities, performance, and operational effectiveness on an ongoing basis
  • Conducts supplier visits and participates in business reviews, product development initiatives, and issue resolution activities
  • Supports supplier performance management programs and key performance indicators (KPIs) related to quality, service, delivery, and cost

Supports cross-functional business initiatives:

  • Partners with internal stakeholders to support product launches, promotions, operational initiatives, and innovation projects
  • Assists in resolving supplier-related quality, service, and supply issues
  • Collaborates with Quality Assurance, Operations, and Supply Chain teams to ensure supplier compliance with company standards and specifications
  • Supports development and implementation of sourcing policies, inventory strategies, and supplier agreements
  • Coordinates supply planning and execution for seasonal programs, promotions, and business initiatives

Manages category performance and operational support:

  • Develops and maintains monthly, quarterly, and annual purchasing and inventory plans
  • Prepares category reviews, business updates, and performance presentations for leadership teams
  • Implements strategies to optimize inventory positioning, minimize excess inventory exposure, and improve service levels
  • Supports supplier audits, compliance reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Maintains strong service levels across distribution and supply networks, including order fulfillment and on-time delivery performance
  • Works collaboratively with suppliers, logistics providers, and internal teams to proactively address operational challenges and mitigate future risks
  • Travels domestically and internationally as needed for supplier meetings, sourcing initiatives, trade events, and operational support

REQUIRED TECHNICAL SKILLS

  • Minimum of 4 years of experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, supply chain, or category management
  • Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Experience with supplier management, forecasting, and risk mitigation strategies
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and other business applications

REQUIRED EDUCATION

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Finance, Operations, or a related field required
  • MBA or advanced degree preferred

About the Company

R

Red Lobster