Supply Chain Director

Company Overview

Salata is a build-your-own salad kitchen with over 50 fresh toppings, five salad bases, and a variety of house-made gluten-free dressings, allowing guests to customize their salads and wraps without limitations. Since its inception in 2005 with a single location in Houston, Salata has grown to over 100 corporate and franchise restaurants across several states, including Texas, Georgia, Southern California, Louisiana, and North Carolina. Expansion plans are underway for new markets like South Carolina, Arkansas, and Florida. Salata values individual growth alongside its fresh ingredients to foster a thriving, healthy community.

Role Summary

The Supply Chain Director will spearhead the company's procurement strategies, managing supplier relationships, negotiating contracts, and optimizing costs. This position ensures sourcing activities align with Salata’s business goals and operational requirements, demanding strategic thinking, analytical skills, and effective negotiation capabilities to manage multiple vendors while enhancing cost efficiencies.

Director of Procurement Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic procurement initiatives aimed at enhancing sourcing effectiveness, cost reduction, and strong vendor partnerships.
• Source and evaluate suppliers to secure quality products, cost efficiency, and timely delivery.
• Foster robust vendor relationships with negotiations that secure advantageous contractual terms.
• Analyze purchasing expenditures to uncover and implement cost-saving prospects.
• Create and oversee procurement budgets aligned with financial objectives.
• Apply risk mitigation tactics to maintain cost-effective and reliable procurement operations.
• Lead supplier contract negotiations ensuring favorable terms, competitive pricing, and compliance with company policies and legal regulations.
• Monitor supplier adherence to contracts and take corrective actions as needed.
• Streamline procurement workflows by introducing best practices and improving transparency.
• Utilize technology and data analytics to support procurement decision-making and reporting.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with finance, operations, and logistics teams to enhance procurement processes.
• Design and implement sustainable procurement policies in line with corporate social responsibility goals.
• Identify and manage supply chain risks to safeguard business continuity.
• Stay informed on market and industry trends to proactively address procurement challenges.
• Lead and mentor the procurement team, establish performance standards, and ensure achievement of department goals.

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related disciplines.
• A minimum of 7 years' experience in procurement, supply chain, distribution, or purchasing management roles.
• Expertise in negotiation, vendor management, and contract administration.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving acumen.
• Excellent leadership and communication capabilities.
• Ability to juggle multiple priorities in a dynamic setting.
• Certification such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is preferred but not mandatory.
• Experience in industry-specific procurement (e.g., food and beverage, manufacturing, retail) is advantageous.
• Familiarity with global sourcing practices and supply chain risk mitigation.

Additional Details

• This full-time, exempt role may require occasional travel for supplier site visits, industry conferences, and corporate meetings.
• Primary work location is 16720 Park Row, Houston, TX 77084.
• Salata Holdings, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the federal E-Verify program; applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans
• 401(k) plan with employer matching contributions
• Paid holidays and vacation time
• Opportunities for professional growth and development