Sourcing Manager- Cocoa

Job Description

The Sourcing Manager for Cocoa will play a critical role in supporting the Senior Sourcing Manager, NA Cocoa Lead Buyer in executing the cocoa procurement strategy for Ghirardelli and Lindt and Sprungli US. This position is responsible for data collection, supplier coordination, contract execution, volume allocation, supplier performance monitoring, and procurement analytics. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work cross-functionally with finance, R&D, and supplier teams.

This position will be based in Stratham, NH and will work on a hybrid schedule.

Essential Functions

Sourcing

• Assist in the execution of the cocoa sourcing strategy, coordinating activities between suppliers, R&D, and the Senior Sourcing Manager, NA Cocoa Lead Buyer.
• Support RFx processes, including data collection, bid analysis, and routing contracts for signature.
• Support the implementation of hedging strategies for cocoa futures, cocoa butter/ powder ratios in accordance with the business strategies.
• Execute supplier risk mitigation measures, ensuring business continuity and compliance with procurement policies.

Strategy Execution

• Prepare AAs/EFSs allocation documentation and route for approval to the Senior Sourcing Manager, NA Cocoa Lead Buyer.
• Manage and maintain contracts within SAP, COZY, and C-Purchasing, collaborating closely with the Sourcing Operations Manager.
• Execute volume allocation plans for the cocoa products, ensuring proper distribution and alignment with business needs.

Supplier Management

• Conduct supplier business reviews alongside the Senior Sourcing Manager, NA Cocoa Lead Buyer for Cocoa, providing key insights and recommendations.
• Assist in issue resolution efforts, escalating challenges as needed to maintain supply continuity

Data and Reporting

• Collect and consolidate material demand and supply needs from Ghirardelli and Lindt and Sprungli US.
• Evaluate and monitor supplier performance, tracking KPIs, service levels, and compliance.
• Validates and report actual and forecasted cost savings.
• Maintain and update procurement reports, including: Rainforest Alliance Multitrace portal updates, Month-end inventory reports , NFR (Non-Financial Risk) data collection and validation to ensure compliance, PPV (Purchase Price Variance) and Budget reporting .
• Collaborate closely with Finance and Planning team on validation of Purchase Price Variance actuals and forecast, forecast of prices for Budget and for COGS simulation.
• Understand key sustainability reporting requirements for the category and work closely with the Cocoa Sustainability team to meet these
• Monitor and update month end inventory report
• Tracking of future orders and accumulators.

Qualifications & Competencies

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Finance, or a related field (MBA preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in procurement or trading of cocoa (preferred) or other commodities.
• Strong expertise in commodity risk management, hedging strategies, and financial forecasting.
• Proven ability to lead supplier negotiations, contract management, and strategic sourcing initiatives.
• Experience working in a global, matrixed environment, collaborating across finance, R&D, and supply chain teams.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills to partner with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Proficiency in procurement systems (e.g., SAP, Coupa, Sievo) and advanced Excel skills.
• Able to work independently

Personal Characteristics/Skills

• Strategic Thinker: Able to align sourcing strategies with organizational goals.
• Results-Driven: Focused on delivering measurable outcomes such as cost savings, risk mitigation, and process efficiencies.
• Innovative Problem Solver: Capable of developing creative solutions for complex procurement challenges.
• Collaborative Leader: Builds strong cross-functional partnerships with stakeholders and suppliers.
• Negotiation Expert: Adept at negotiating favorable terms while maintaining long-term supplier relationships.
• Influential Communicator: Effectively conveys procurement strategies and inspires teams at all levels.

Company Description

Lindt and Sprungli (North America) Inc. is the Supply Chain and Business Shared Services Company supporting the Lindt & Sprungli family of brands (Lindt USA, Ghirardelli Chocolates and Russell Stover Chocolates), headquartered in Kansas City, MO.

Employment by Lindt & Sprungli (North America) Inc. is contingent upon I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification, passing the urinalysis drug screen, and satisfactory employment and background checks.

Lindt & Sprungli (North America) Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation and gender identity, disability, veteran status, pregnancy, or any other status protected by law. Principals only, please.