Position : Head of Procurement
Reporting to : CEO
Location : Chicago, IL (Hybrid)
About Nonni's
Founded in 1988 as a homage to an Italian grandmother, Nonni's Food Group is the leading Biscotti maker in the world and a recognized producer, marketer, and distributor of branded premium specialty cookies and healthier baked goods in North America. Our brands include Nonni's®, THINaddictives®, and La Dolce Vita®, which are found in grocery, mass, club, and online retailers everywhere.
Position Overview
The Head of Procurement is a strategic leader responsible for overseeing the procurement of ingredients and packaging necessary for Nonni's production. This executive role will develop and implement procurement strategies, manage supplier relationships, ensure compliance with food safety standards, and optimize business value while maintaining quality. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, this position will collaborate closely with operations, finance, quality assurance, and logistics to ensure a seamless supply chain and the Chief Procurement Officer within the Ecosystem.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Supply Chain Optimization
- Develop and implement procurement strategies to ensure the timely and cost-effective acquisition of ingredients and supplies
- Manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and evaluate supplier performance
- Monitor market trends and identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements
- Conduct risk assessments and develop contingency plans to mitigate supply chain disruptions
- Prepare and manage procurement budgets, forecasts, and reports
Compliance & Quality Management
Ensure compliance with food safety standards and regulationsPartner with quality assurance to maintain ingredient and packaging specificationsImplement sustainable procurement practices aligned with company valuesDrive continuous improvement in procurement processes and systemsCross-Functional Leadership
Collaborate with production, quality assurance, and logistics teams to ensure a seamless supply chainPresent strategic insights and recommendations to executive leadershipServe as the company's subject matter expert on procurement and supplier managementCoordinate with finance on cost projections and budget planningTeam Leadership
Lead and mentor the procurement team, fostering a culture of continuous improvementEstablish clear performance metrics and drive accountabilityEnsure team members have the tools, training, and resources needed to excelCreate a culture of analytical excellence and professional developmentQualifications
Experience
7+ years of progressive experience in procurement, preferably within the food industryProven track record of leading successful procurement initiatives and supplier managementStrong understanding of food safety standards and regulationsExperience managing complex procurement projects and negotiationsPrior director-level experience preferredSkills & Abilities
Strategic vision with ability to translate market intelligence into executable procurement strategiesAdvanced negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skillsExceptional leadership skills with demonstrated ability to influence across organizational levelsStrong analytical and problem-solving abilitiesProficiency in procurement software and toolsAbility to work collaboratively with cross-functional teamsEducation
Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, or related field requiredMBA or related advanced degree strongly preferredWorking Conditions
Hybrid work arrangement based in Chicago officeApproximately 20% travel required to visit suppliers, manufacturing sites, and key business locationsCompensation
Competitive compensation package including base salary, annual performance bonus, 401(k), insurance, etc.Nonni's Bakery is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique talents and perspectives. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Our approach thrives on diverse viewpoints and backgrounds. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply.