Sourcing Manager- Raw Materials

Job Description

The Sourcing Manager for Raw Materials is responsible for developing and executing the strategic sourcing strategy for raw materials including sugar, milk, oils and fats, nuts, flavors, inclusions and other ingredients across Ghirardelli and Lindt & Sprungli (USA). This role will support the Sourcing Director of Raw Materials in supplier negotiations, manage commodity price risk, oversee contract execution, and drive sustainability initiatives. The ideal candidate will work closely with Finance, R&D, Material Planners, and Quality teams to ensure supply continuity, cost optimization, and strategic alignment with the company's financial objectives.

This position could be located in Stratham, NH or San Leandro, CA and will work a hybrid schedule.

Key Responsibilities

• Supports the development and implementation of sourcing strategies across key raw materials using the 7-step sourcing process, while incorporating sustainability initiatives.
• Assist in the execution of the raw material sourcing strategies, coordinating activities between suppliers, R&D, and QA.
• Lead execution of RFx processes and supplier negotiations, including long-term pricing model development and supplier partnerships.
• Coordinates end-to-end contract process, ensuring compliance, risk mitigation, and financial alignment.
• Collaborate with Finance and Planning teams on validation of Purchase Price Variance, Budget Forecast, Latest Estimates, and for Cost of Goods simulation.
• Execute volume allocation plans, ensuring proper distribution and alignment with business needs.
• Supports the analysis and recommendation of coverage strategies for commodity categories, securing CFO sign-off from LSUS and GCC.
• Evaluate and monitor supplier performance, tracking KPIs, service levels, and compliance.
• Conduct supplier business reviews alongside the Sourcing Director, providing key insights and recommendations.
• Assist in issue resolution efforts, escalating challenges as needed to maintain supply continuity.
• Monitor material demand fluctuations to anticipate and mitigate potential supply disruptions.
• Execute supplier risk mitigation measures, ensuring business continuity and compliance with procurement policies.
• Support cost savings initiatives and Design-to-Value programs, identifying opportunities for category optimization.
• Validates and report actual and forecasted cost savings.
• Manage and maintain contracts within SAP collaborating closely with the Sourcing Operations Manager.
• Maintain and update procurement reports, including Rain Forest Alliance Multitrace portal updates, NFR (Non-Financial Risk) data collection and validation to ensure compliance, Decarbonization initiatives and CO2 reduction, PPV (Purchase Price Variance), Price Forecast and Budget reporting .
• Conducts market research and competitive intelligence to key commodities industry trends and market dynamics.
• Develops category reporting and analytics, preparing market intelligence reports for North America.
• Represent NA for selected commodities on the Global Commodities Call.

Personal Characteristics/Skills

• Strategic Thinker: Able to align procurement 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.
• Financial & Strategic Acumen: Ability to interpret financial reports, understand business strategy, and align procurement decisions with organizational goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain, Business, Finance, or a related field (MBA preferred).
• 5+ years experience in driving category sourcing management and sourcing strategy in raw materials
• Prior experience in commodity risk management, hedging strategies, and price forecasting.
• Experience working in a global, matrixed environment, collaborating across finance, R&D, and supply chain teams.
• Proven expertise in strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, and supplier relationship management.
• Strong knowledge of sustainability principles, responsible sourcing practices, digital procurement tools, and supply risk management.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in procurement systems (e.g., SAP, Coupa, Sievo) and advanced Excel skills.

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.

Salary Range

Stratham, NH: $120,000-$145,000/year

San Leandro, CA: $130,000-$155,000/year