Procurement Associate

As our Procurement Associate, you'll play a pivotal role in supporting our Franchisees, Operations teams, and the Procurement, Design & Construction Department. You will cultivate strong relationships with vendors, assist franchisees throughout the procurement process, and analyze data, pricing, and product options to ensure we source high-quality products at competitive prices.

In this role, you will collaborate closely with internal partners and suppliers to manage risks, control expenses, and drive key business objectives. Your efforts will contribute to the development of effective contracts, support strategic negotiations, and help maintain robust supplier partnerships.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Establish and nurture strong strategic partnerships with vendors.
• Address and resolve any issues or discrepancies between vendors and internal teams.
• Ensure vendors comply with company policies, legal standards, and industry regulations.
• Engage in the strategic sourcing process, including identifying potential vendors, conducting RFIs/RFPs, and assessing bids.
• Assist in managing various procurement-related contracts, including NDAs and vendor agreements.
• Collaborate with internal teams (e.g., finance, legal, operations) to ensure alignment and seamless operations.
• Monitor and report on vendor performance, costs, and other relevant metrics (including sponsorship funds, DEI initiatives, and annual spend).
• Act as the primary point of contact for assigned vendors.
• Conduct regular business reviews with vendors to evaluate performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Serve as the first point of contact for all Franchisees to address operational challenges such as vendor performance, service issues, warranty claims on equipment, and inquiries about operating supplies.
• Play an essential role in the openings team by setting up vendor accounts and identifying order issues that may hinder scheduled opening dates. Provide project budgets as necessary.
• Manage the Under One Roof (newsletter) submissions from the Procurement team and vendor partners.
• Maintain and distribute essential reports, files, and lists.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree or equivalent work experience required.
• 2-5 years of work experience in a procurement, sourcing, or vendor relations role is required.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills to effectively engage with vendors and internal teams.
• Adept at identifying and resolving issues quickly and effectively.
• Capable of analyzing vendor performance data, spotting trends, and making informed recommendations.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Experience in hospitality, manufacturing, retail, or other multi-site environments is preferred.
• Meticulous attention to detail and strong follow-up skills.
• Willingness to travel less than 10% of the time.
• Position is based at our New Albany office. Employees are expected to be in the office Monday through Thursday, with flexible arrangements on Fridays.