The Sr. Buyer, External Manufacturing Procurement is responsible for the Meat and Cheese core external manufacturing portfolio, supporting sourcing execution, supplier management, and operational follow-through. Reporting to the Group Lead, External Manufacturing Procurement, this role is responsible for delivering reliable execution, collaborating cross-functionally, and strengthening day-to-day sourcing and supplier management within their area while contributing to broader category and business priorities.
This role is expected to improve how work gets done within that space through strong ownership, coordination, and judgment. The role is focused on independent execution and strategy, process improvement and driving portfolio performance across productivity, risk, and value while shaping the longer-term category strategy.
Job Description
Essential Functions & Responsibilities
Own a defined set of external manufacturing sourcing, supplier management, or portfolio support activities within an assigned area
Manage day-to-day work independently within established priorities, processes, and procurement policies
Support sourcing execution within Meat and Cheese external manufacturing, including supplier identification, bid support, negotiations, contracting coordination, implementation, and performance monitoring
Manage ongoing supplier interactions and follow-up within assigned scope, including issue resolution, service support, escalation tracking, and performance management activities
Deliver against defined productivity, inflation management, cash, service, and supply continuity priorities within area of responsibility
Build practical understanding of supplier capabilities, category dynamics, stakeholder needs, and business priorities to support stronger execution and recommendations
Coordinate with cross-functional partners including Operations, Finance, Quality, R&D, Legal, and Supply Chain to move work forward and resolve issues within scope
Don't want to miss the next one?
Subscribe to daily email alerts for roles matching your interests.
Champion the total cost of assigned category by identifying and implementing novel and creative means for reducing costs, improving quality, or otherwise improving total cost of ownership.
Proactively manage supply chain risk and ensure resiliency through adequate capacity management. Develop risk mitigation strategies to meet business needs by identifying potential areas of risk, recommending proposed solutions and executing with cross-functional stakeholder alignment
Support supplier strategy execution and category planning by providing inputs, tracking actions, and helping translate plans into execution
Lead Supplier Relationship Management activities by identifying supplier performance themes, development needs, and follow-up actions within assigned suppliers or categories
Support risk management, business continuity planning, supplier segmentation, and supply base management activities within assigned scope
Strengthen existing tools, templates, routines, and ways of working to improve efficiency, visibility, follow-through, and execution discipline
Help maintain consistency in sourcing processes, supplier communication, issue tracking, and follow-up across the area of responsibility
Use data and established governance routines to monitor progress, support accountability, and improve execution quality
Contribute ideas that simplify processes, reduce rework, and improve speed and clarity of execution
Expected Experience & Required Skills
Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, business, finance, operations, engineering, or a related field
Solid procurement experience, ideally including external manufacturing, finished goods, ingredients, packaging, CAPEX, or related categories
Experience managing sourcing activities, supplier relationships, negotiations, contracting coordination, and operational follow-through in a complex business environment
Strong execution mindset with the ability to manage multiple priorities with quality and discipline
Strong organizational and follow-through skills, with the ability to keep work moving across stakeholders and timelines
Sound commercial and business judgment within a defined scope of responsibility
Ability to identify issues early, solve problems proactively, and escalate appropriately when needed
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills across matrixed teams and functions
Ability to coordinate effectively with cross-functional partners and maintain momentum on shared work
Growing category and supplier management capability, including understanding of performance drivers, risks, and business implications
Continuous improvement mindset, with the ability to strengthen existing tools, routines, and ways of working over time
Curiosity about AI and digital tools, with interest in how they can improve visibility, efficiency, and decision making
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with source-to-pay tools such as SAP, Ariba, Workday, and related systems
Work Environment & Schedule This position is considered a normal office environment with moderate travel to customer locations, stores, manufacturing facilities, etc.; offices are open workspaces. To create a more agile and modern workplace, we allow Chicago/Aon Center based employees to work virtually for up to two days each week and expect them to work in-person during the defined core days at their assigned work location at least three days per workweek
Our Total Rewards philosophy is to provide a meaningful and flexible spectrum of programs that equitably support our diverse workforce and their families and complement Kraft Heinz’ strategy and values.
New Hire Base Salary Range:
$89,800.00 - $112,200.00
Bonus: This position is eligible for a performance-based bonus as provided by the plan terms and governing documents.
The compensation offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors
Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family’s needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.
Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.
You’ll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:
- Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training
- Emotional – Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
- Financial – 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability
Location(s) Chicago/Aon Center
Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer – Underrepresented Ethnic Minority Groups/Women/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity and other protected classes. In order to ensure reasonable accommodation for protected individuals, applicants that require accommodation in the job application process may contact NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com for assistance.
Similar roles you might like
More openings like this one — take a look before you go.
