If you’re a procurement, sourcing, or purchasing expert looking for your next opportunity, consider this 1-year contract role as Procurement Category Manager with UPGC . You’ll play a key role in optimizing costs, managing risk, and driving value for our iconic brands.
Why Join UPGC?
UPGC is the trusted purchasing and distribution partner for KFC, Taco Bell, and Pizza Hut across Canada.
- Great Culture – Certified as a Great Place to Work for 7 years
- Impactful Work – Influence major brands and shape procurement strategies
- Collaborative Team – Small but mighty, where your contributions matter
- Growth – Expand your expertise in a fast-paced environment
Be part of a team that makes a difference— apply today! See the job description below.
SUMMARY OF THE POSITION :
To develop Category plans and strategies, purchase to optimize costs, manage risk, ensure continuous supply, initiate and support innovation, build strong and collaborative relationships with suppliers, the brands, and the Franchisee community to drive stakeholder value.Expand category influence within UPGC.Identify opportunities to leverage systems of scale and work in collaboration with the Brand and our Franchise Partners in leading the Sourcing Process through to execution as aligned with UPGC Management.Consistently act in the best interest of ALL brands (KFC, Taco Bell & Pizza Hut) and brand partners across the system.KEY ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES :
Commodities Category Manager Accountabilities
Purchase products, and / or services at the best combination of quality, cost, supply, and delivery while understanding the cost drivers and making informed decisions within that category that are aligned to UPGC Supply Chain Governance. Maintain timely and accurate records. Manage day-to-day aspects of category, including but not limited to pricing, shortages, transportation, promotions, shelf life, etc.Develop and execute buying and distribution strategy for categories outlined.Provide reports / documents / graphs in support of procurement strategies (e.g., Spend analysis, Contracts Coverage, Market intelligence)Ensure components contract prices are properly managed and tracked. Support Procurement team members to build the cost bars on strategic purchases and help with breaking down the Supply Chain into its component parts.Provide recommendations on the upside / downside risk within a commodity to be used by the Procurement Team and ManagementResearch, review and analyze the effectiveness and efficiency of the existing process and develop strategies to enhance or further leverage the process.Lead supplier discussions related to negotiations and / or issues pertaining to the contract terms. Conduct semi-annual / annual business reviews with suppliers in conjunction with members of the Procurement / Supply Chain teams.Prepare Board presentation documentation for assigned categories for all brands as required.Meet Financial responsibility as set out in aligned AOP for assigned categories.Support a culture of accuracy, urgency and on-time, on-budget project delivery while having fun.Develop contingency and risk mitigation strategies and implement plans.Work collaboratively with all team members within the UPGC umbrella to embrace a culture of information sharing and teamwork in support of continuous improvement across all brands.Obtain guidance, coaching and mentoring from your manager in relation to core objectives, brand interaction, core category strategies and people development.Unlock the value of supplier-based innovation, collaborating with both suppliers and the Brands.Work cross-functionally with our business partners supporting overall Canadian brand business and strategic initiatives.Keep abreast of economic conditions, business situations, new materials and techniques that affect your categories and the UPGC business.Complete the Annual Operating Plan (AOP) by managing and maintaining up-to-date costs / expenses on a period basis ensuring to remain on track through constant review.Attend meetings held by various stakeholders and be prepared to present and provide input and recommendations as a representative of UPGC.Other duties as assigned.CORE SKILLS & COMPETENCIES :
Project Management and excellent planning skillsSuperior verbal & written communication and presentation skillsOrganizational & time management skills with ability to prioritize.Experience in negotiations and contracting.Experience developing Category StrategiesKnowledge of quality assurance philosophies, practices, and techniques are an asset.Detail oriented with strong analytical skills.Creative thinker with the ability to problem-solve and to analyze situations to develop proactive solutions.Excellent interpersonal and relationship building skills.Team Player who interacts well with all levels of management.Must be able to work professionally to resolve problems (both internal & external) in a fair and ethical manner while maintaining a positive working relationship and protecting the long-term interests of the company.EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE :
Community College Diploma or University degree in Business or equivalent work experience.6+ years’ experience in a similar capacity, preferably in either food manufacturing or food service industrySolid understanding of commodity, food and / or packaging sourcing is an asset.Supply Chain Management Professional, SCMA or equivalent is an asset.Intermediate to Advanced computer skills with entire Microsoft platformUPGC Inc is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. In addition, UPGC is committed to providing accommodation for people with disabilities.
Candidates being considered for the position will be required to do some testing, provide evidence of education as well as personal and professional references.