Senior Procurement Executive - Proteins

Chef Middle East is looking for the Senior Procurement Executive who will play a key role in sourcing, purchasing, and managing inventory for Protein Category. This position requires strategic thinking, excellent negotiation skills, and the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers. The role involves optimizing procurement processes to meet the company's goals in terms of quality, cost efficiency, and timely delivery. Key Responsibilities: • Identify and onboard reliable suppliers for foodservice products, ensuring quality and cost-effectiveness. • Maintain and strengthen supplier relationships to secure long-term partnerships and favorable terms. • Conduct regular supplier performance reviews based on delivery timelines, product quality, and service levels. • Develop and execute procurement strategies that align with business goals and operational needs. • Anticipate demand fluctuations and plan accordingly to avoid stock shortages or excess inventory. • Work closely with logistics and operations teams to manage inventory flow and reduce waste. • Use data-driven insights to forecast inventory needs and optimize procurement cycles. • Negotiate pricing, contracts, and payment terms to achieve cost savings without compromising on quality. • Ensure all purchases are within the approved budget and contribute to overall financial efficiency. • Identify opportunities for cost reduction through value engineering and process improvements. • Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies, food safety standards, and local regulations. • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of purchases, contracts, and supplier agreements. • Conduct regular audits to ensure adherence to internal and external compliance requirements. • Collaborate with finance, operations, and sales teams to align procurement activities with business objectives. • Coordinate with logistics to ensure timely delivery of products and resolve any issues related to shipments. • Support other departments with procurement expertise for special or urgent projects. • Stay updated on market trends, pricing dynamics, and new suppliers in the foodservice industry. • Proactively seek opportunities to improve procurement processes, reduce lead times, and enhance operational efficiency. • Implement sustainable procurement practices to align with organizational values and customer expectations. Qualifications and Experience: • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field. • Professional certifications such as CIPS or CPSM are preferred. • Minimum 3-5 years of experience in procurement of beef and poultry, with a focus on foodservice or FMCG. • Proven track record in strategic sourcing and supplier negotiations. • Experience in managing international and local suppliers in the foodservice industry. Show more Show less