Vice President, Category Development, Food

Vice President, Category Development, Food Foodbuy is the industry leader in procurement and supply chain solutions. We are a subsidiary of the 6th largest company in the world (Compass Group PLC) yet retain an entrepreneurial spirit. We source and provide a variety of products and services across hospitality, restaurant, healthcare, education, entertainment, gaming, and support the world’s largest contract food and support services provider, Compass Group. Why Foodbuy? We care about our associates, clients, and community. We encourage innovation, think big, and celebrate game changers. Our benefits, PTO, and compensation are competitive, and we grow alongside our associates. We follow the “People FIRST” value system: Flexibility, Inclusion, Results, Sustainability, and Transparency. Job Summary The Vice President, Category Development, Food leads strategic growth and supplier excellence across assigned food categories. Managing a high‑performing team, the VP defines and executes category strategies that deliver measurable value to Compass Group and Foodbuy LLC members, covering Center of Plate (Protein), Grocery, and Bakery categories. Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Category Excellence Define, lead, and execute comprehensive category strategies aligned with Foodbuy’s objectives, driving growth and innovation. Partner with suppliers and stakeholders to identify emerging trends, optimize performance, and create differentiated value propositions for members. Oversee end‑to‑end category lifecycle: opportunity assessment, budgeting, negotiation, implementation, and performance measurement. Supplier Management & Negotiation Serve as escalation point for suppliers and distributors to secure optimal pricing. Build and sustain senior‑level partnerships with key suppliers to promote collaboration and mutual success. Champion SRM best practices, including scorecards, business reviews, performance tracking, and risk mitigation. Contract Management & Optimization Lead the team in overseeing commercial aspects of contract management. Drive continuous improvement in contract structures and terms to enhance flexibility and savings. Collaborate cross‑functionally with sourcing and legal on strategy, renewals, amendments, and enforcement of terms. Financial & Operational Accountability Own financial performance for assigned categories: income targets, budget management, and supplier‑level forecasting. Develop and execute cost‑savings and inflation‑mitigation plans to exceed annual goals. Coach the team to identify commercial opportunities, optimize spending, and reduce risk. Team Leadership & Development Inspire, coach, and develop category leaders, building robust strategies and strengthening Foodbuy’s market leadership. Foster accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement across the organization. Promote collaboration across procurement, distribution, operations, and account management for alignment and execution. Requirements Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in procurement or category management. Minimum 7 years in a senior leadership role managing high‑performing teams. Foodservice industry experience highly preferred. Bachelor’s degree required; MBA or advanced degree preferred. Skills & Competencies Proven success in leading large‑scale negotiations and complex supplier relationships. Expertise in contract management, financial planning, and category strategy development. Exceptional influencing, communication, and executive presentation skills. Strong business acumen with analytical, strategic, and operational depth. Proficient in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word. Motivated change leader with a track record of delivering results in fast‑paced environments. Travel: Up to 20% annually. Benefits Medical Dental Vision Life Insurance / AD Disability Insurance Retirement Plan Paid Time Off Paid Parental Leave Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state) Personal Leave Associate Shopping Program Health and Wellness Programs Discount Marketplace Identity Theft Protection Pet Insurance Commuter Benefits Employee Assistance Program Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For Washington State, Maryland, or Remote positions, additional time‑off benefits information is available upon request. Equal Opportunity Statement Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to treating all applicants and associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law. Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. This job post reflects an accurate reflection of the position posted; the Company reserves the right to modify essential functions. The Company considers all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history, and complies with Fair Chance initiatives in various jurisdictions. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. Foodbuy maintains a drug‑free workplace. Req ID: 1478834 #J-18808-Ljbffr