Job Description

As our Strategic Sourcing Manager, you will be responsible for developing category strategies, leading supplier selection and negotiation, and implementing sourcing initiatives that deliver commercial, quality, and service benefits across our operations.

You’ll work closely with distributors, suppliers, finance, logistics, and client‑facing teams, acting as the driving force behind category performance and supply chain optimisation.

This is a high‑visibility role where your insights and expertise will influence decisions at a regional and global level.

Job Responsibilities

Category Strategy & Buying

Develop and execute category strategies based on data, insights, stakeholder needs, and market opportunities
Lead sourcing events (RFI, RFP, RFQ, ITT), tender processes, and commercial negotiations
Ensure competitive pricing and best‑in‑class value through benchmarking and data‑driven analysis
Support sustainability and ethical procurement initiatives aligned with Aramark’s Net Zero 2050 strategy
Lead financial oversight for your categories, ensuring robust governance and accurate reporting

Supplier, Distributor & Stakeholder Management

Build, maintain, and influence strong supplier relationships at senior level
Ensure supplier performance is monitored and measured through KPIs, SLAs, service metrics, and quality audits
Oversee product lists, specifications, and pricing files—ensuring accuracy and service level excellence
Act as a trusted point of contact for the Avendra IRL sales team and key clients
Support operations with product queries, service issues, and escalations

Logistics & Operational Integration

Align purchasing strategy with wholesale and logistics partners
Ensure category plans support stock availability, delivery performance, and operational needs
Communicate changes effectively across the supply chain and buying teams

Global Collaboration

Participate in European and global joint procurement projects
Support testing, validation, and rollout of product changes via cross‑functional teams
Champion compliance with procurement processes, systems, and policy frameworks

What Yo Bring

Experience & Education

5+ years’ experience in retail, foodservice, hospitality, or food-related environments
5+ years’ experience in a buying, sourcing, or category management role
Strong background in fresh or short‑life product categories
Experience managing high‑value spend and negotiating commercial terms
Understanding of market trends, food supply chains, and category management principles

Skills & Capabilities

Strong commercial acumen with the ability to analyse complex data and drive decision‑making
Confident negotiator with proven supplier relationship management skills
Excellent stakeholder engagement, able to influence cross‑functional teams
Strong communicator—comfortable presenting to senior stakeholders
Highly organised, proactive and solutions-focused

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree (preferred)
CIPS qualification (beneficial but not essential)

About Aramark

Northern Europe - Our Mission

Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet.

Northern Europe - About Aramark

Aramark is a leading service and solutions provider in Northern Europe. We proudly support clients, partners and customers in food, facilities management, property services, and retail solutions. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you’re pursuing — a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work — our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at http://www.aramarkcareers.com

All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Aramark Northern Europe is an equal opportunities employer.