Job description
Position Description
The Food Purchasing Manager is responsible for coordinating food and beverage purchasing for Harvard University Dining Services (HUDS). This includes the oversight and management of the Food Pro application and a staff of three to assist in coordinating food purchasing, menu management, inventory management, invoice payment, and reporting. The position reports to the Managing Director of HUDS.
Duties and Responsibilities
Duties and Responsibilities
- Manages a staff of three to coordinate the food, beverage and services buying and menu management system administration in support of the day-to-day needs of HUDS’ operations, which receive daily deliveries from multiple vendors.
- Develops ongoing vendor relationships with local distributors and suppliers who are prepared to understand and support the special requirements of an educational institution. Works with these suppliers to participate from time-to-time in Harvard sponsored programs or initiatives.
- Maintains a good understanding of trends and market movement in products for brining up-to-date market information of products and availability so that HUDS’ program can maintain innovation in the food and menu design. HUDS’ vision emphasizes improving sourcing of biodiverse ingredients.
- Develops food cost and commodity pricing reports on a monthly basis for the Managing Director. Additionally, supports members of the senior leadership team by informing them about each business line and providing insights on food spend and opportunities and challenges with product procurement, in an effort to optimize higher value and improved experiences for our community.
- Strategizes with HUDS’ Managing Director and Director of Culinary Operations to advance the overall procurement approach and monitor spend by products and services to ensure budget guidelines are not exceeded. Propose menu item alternatives to HUDS when costs become prohibitive.
- Works with primary suppliers to mutually develop benchmark metrics and conduct scheduled business meetings to discuss performance against these metrics.
- Drives innovation and development of potential new suppliers and alternate sources. Develops direct, ongoing manufacturer, farmer, and fisherman relationships in support of Harvard’s sustainability initiatives.
- Oversees and monitors vendor contract compliance to ensure terms and conditions are being met.
- Proficient in the menu management system, audits product information and ensures accurate procurement, nutritional and price information is maintained by staff.
- Evaluates and recommends process improvements and implements change in coordination with HUDS’ operational teams. Advises HUDS of procurement policies and procedures and ensures compliance with guidelines.
- Builds strong relationships with HUDS management team to include all directors, general managers, chefs, and production managers.
- Monitors costs compared to budget as often as necessary to ensure costs do not exceed budget. Identifies cost drivers and makes recommendations to HUDS management of changes to the menu offering if warranted.
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience required
- Minimum of 7 years’ relevant work experience
Additional Qualifications and Skills
- Experience with Aurora’s Food Pro software is a plus.
- Excellent organizational, analytical, time management skills.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, presentation, negotiation skills with strong influencing and persuasive talents.
- Self-motivated, takes initiative; ability to effectively organize, multi-task and prioritize a wide array of initiatives.
- Aptitude for innovation.
- High integrity and ethics.
Working Conditions
- Work is performed in an office setting
Additional Information
Leadership Competencies:
COMPETENCIES
COMPETENCIES
- Building a High Performing Team - Develops a capable, diverse and cohesive team to maximize their collective skills and talents; motivates others to achieve the organization’s goals; recognizes and rewards contributions.
- Building Trust - Interacts with others in a way that gives them confidence in one’s intentions and those of the organization.
- Managing Change - Understands, communicates, and outwardly supports organizational change; identifies opportunities for change; stays current on methods to motivate others to accept the activities and mindset required for the successful implementation of workplace change.
- Problem Analysis and Problem Solving - Uses sound or logical judgment to spot and analyze problems, develop alternative solutions and initiate corrective action.
- Pursues Excellence - Sets high standards of performance for self and others; self-imposes standards of excellence.
- Teamwork and Collaboration - Actively participates as a member of a team to move the team toward the completion of goals. Maintains strong, personal connections with team members and key stakeholders. Aligns personal work and performance with the broader team to achieve mutual outcomes.
- Valuing Diversity - Appreciates and leverages the capabilities, insights, and ideas of all individuals; works effectively with individuals of diverse style, ability, and motivation.
Job Function
Finance
Department Office Location
USA - MA - Cambridge
Job Code
F1258P Procurement Admin IV
Department
HUDS Dining
Sub-Unit
Dining Services
Time Status
Full-time
Salary Grade
058
Union
00 - Non Union, Exempt or Temporary
Pre-Employment Screening
Education, Employment, Identity
Schedule
Monday - Friday 8am- 5pm
Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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