Director Strategic Sourcing - Produce

Job Description

Title: Director, Strategic Sourcing – Produce
Location: Philadelphia, PA (HQ) and Rockville, MD (Avendra) preferred

 

Position Summary:
The Director, Strategic Sourcing – Produce, leads a team responsible for sourcing and managing fresh produce and value-added produce categories within Aramark’s Strategic Sourcing organization. This role requires a strategic, analytical approach to supplier management, cost transparency, and category innovation. The Director will develop and execute sourcing strategies that deliver value, quality, and sustainability for Aramark’s clients and operations.

 

Position Reports to: VP, Strategic Sourcing
Number of Direct Reports: 1-3

Job Responsibilities

Primary Responsibilities:

• Lead the produce sourcing team to identify trends, opportunities, and new categories that create value for all Aramark entities and its clients.
• Develop and document category strategies for fresh produce and value-added produce, including pack size standardization, cost transparency (FOB, packaging, processing), and supply chain optimization.
• Maintain deep knowledge of produce markets, including seasonality, distribution channels, cost structures, and industry trends.
• Incorporate Aramark’s business model and customer needs into sourcing strategies, ensuring alignment with sustainability and food safety standards.
• Manage, coach, and mentor a team of sourcing professionals, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Oversee contract negotiations, supplier selection, and relationship management to ensure high-quality, cost-effective supply.
• Partner with internal stakeholders (Culinary, Operations, QA, Sustainability) to develop and roll out produce programs.
• Monitor team initiatives, provide regular updates to leadership, and ensure timely execution of sourcing projects.
• Serve as the technical expert in produce sourcing for client and supplier meetings.
• Identify and implement best practices in produce sourcing and supply chain management.
• Lead supplier negotiations and pricing strategy development for complex produce agreements.

 

Secondary Responsibilities:

• Ensure collaboration with internal departments, clients, and suppliers to maximize contract success.
• Address competitive issues, pricing strategies, supplier performance, and innovation within produce categories.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders across Aramark, GPOs, clients, and suppliers.
• Support business ownership activities and promote the use of sourcing tools and analytics.
• Respond to client requests and ensure high levels of customer satisfaction.

Qualifications

Primary Competencies:

• Planning and Organization
• Negotiation
• Functional/Technical Skills (Produce Sourcing)
• Problem Solving & Analytical Skills
• Quality & Continuous Improvement
• Results Orientation

 

Supervisory Competencies:

• Team Development
• Performance Management
• Leadership Agility
• Valuing and Managing Differences

 

Other Duties:
This role description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities. Duties may change at any time with or without notice.

Work Environment:
Office-based in Philadelphia, PA and Rockville, MD, with routine use of standard office equipment.

Physical Demands:
Primarily sedentary, with occasional light lifting.

 

Role Requirements:

• Strong technical sourcing and negotiation skills, with a focus on produce categories.
• Detail-oriented, innovative thinker with strong analytical and project management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to lead, coach, and motivate a team of professionals.
• Experience developing category and product knowledge in produce, including value-added and specialty items.
• Ability to develop contracts that meet client business needs and drive value.
• Strong relationship-building skills at all levels within Aramark, GPOs, clients, and suppliers.

 

Overnight Travel Requirements:
10–20%, 1–3 nights per trip.

Years of Relevant Experience:
10+ years in strategic sourcing, with significant experience in produce or foodservice categories.