Category Manager, Procurement

Position Summary

At Checkers & Rally’s, being fearlessly original isn’t just on the menu—it’s in our DNA. As a Category Manager overseeing direct procurement food categories, you’ll be the strategic force behind the products that power our restaurants. In this high-visibility role, your decisions shape the guest experience and operational efficiency across hundreds of restaurants.

You’ll lead sourcing strategy, supplier negotiations, contract management, and cost optimization for high-impact categories. With a sharp eye for data and a fearless approach to problem-solving, you’ll drive innovation, cross-functional collaboration, ensure supply continuity, and deliver value that reflects our unapologetically original brand.

Position Accountabilities

• Own end-to-end category management for direct procurement categories including but not limited to food.
• Develop and execute sourcing strategies aligned with brand goals and operational needs
• Lead supplier negotiations, contract development, and cost-saving initiatives
• Monitor market trends, emerging technologies, and improved efficiency opportunities
• Manage supplier relationships, performance scorecards, and escalation resolution
• Oversee item setup, lifecycle tracking, and documentation in procurement systems
• Ensure accuracy of item data, pricing, and specifications for packaging and equipment
• Support product transitions, equipment upgrades, and LTO packaging rollouts
• Analyze spend, pricing trends, and supplier performance using tools like Arrowstream, Excel, and Power BI

• Build reports to support sourcing decisions and executive reviews
• Translate data into actionable insights that inform strategy and drive results
• Partner with Distribution, Operations, Real Estate, Marketing, and Culinary teams to support product launches and business needs.
• Collaborate with Finance, Real Estate, and Legal on business cases, contracts, and risk mitigation
• Lead cross-functional initiatives to improve cost, quality, and sustainability

Employment Standards

• Demonstrates full accountability for category performance, supplier relationships, and sourcing outcomes
• Proactively drives initiatives, mentors team members, and influences cross-functional decisions
• Builds strong partnerships across departments and with external suppliers to align goals and drive execution
• Thrives in a fast-paced, evolving environment with the ability to pivot strategies and manage ambiguity
• Relentlessly pursues cost savings, quality improvements, and operational efficiency
• Uses data-driven insights to inform decisions, uncover opportunities, and mitigate risks
• Maintains high accuracy in item setup, pricing, and documentation to ensure flawless execution
• Crafts clear, persuasive messaging for internal stakeholders and external partners
• Manages multiple priorities with precision, meeting deadlines and delivering on commitments
• Stays ahead of industry trends, regulatory changes, and innovation

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field

Experience:

• 8+ years in procurement, category management, or strategic sourcing
• Proven success managing direct spend food categories with experience in packaging, distribution, and other related roles in QSR, foodservice, retail, or other similar manufacturing industries
• Strong negotiation skills and experience with RFPs, supplier contracts, and cost modeling
• Familiarity with trends, regulatory requirements, and commodities in packaging and equipment
• Strong analytical and interpersonal skills

Essential Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working at a computer or attending meetings
• Occasional lifting of materials or products up to 25 pounds may be required
• Capacity to move throughout office or supplier environments as needed
• Must be able to travel domestically for supplier visits or business needs, up to 10%

Competencies:

• Strategic Problem Solving – Tackles complex challenges with confidence and clarity. Uses data, logic, and creativity to uncover root causes and deliver effective, scalable solutions.
• Resilience Under Pressure – Thrives in high-stakes environments. Maintains focus and composure through ambiguity, tight deadlines, and shifting priorities.
• Ownership Mentality – Takes full accountability for category performance, supplier relationships, and sourcing outcomes. Operates with a sense of urgency and pride in execution.
• Influence & Collaboration – Builds trust across departments and with external partners. Communicates with clarity and confidence, driving alignment and action.
• Continuous Improvement – Always looking for a better way. Challenges the status quo, embraces feedback, and leads initiatives that elevate team performance and process efficiency.
• Curious & Courageous – Willing to take risks and ownership.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

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