GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PRIMARY PURPOSE:
The Director, Procurement directs procurement and sourcing operations of Dole Fresh Vegetable (DFV) for all goods and services (excluding raw vegetables), ensuring maximum value per expenditure and appropriate supply inventory levels. This role ensures proper contract and supplier management as it relates to all procurement functions and operations across the DFV organization.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS/DUTIES OF THE POSITION:
• Develop relationships and negotiate supply contracts with vendors for procurement that align with strategic goals of DFV and overall Procurement Strategies.
• Initiate formal RFPs and perform purchasing value analyses; recommend and implement process improvements, utilizing excellent negotiation skills.
• Source and qualify potential suppliers, in accordance with established supplier certification guidelines and Purchasing policies. Coordinate and oversee bid processes for suppliers according to established guidelines.
• Responsible for negotiations, contract development, ensure team is establishing blanket purchase orders to support regional replenishment activity and protecting pricing, of over $250 million worth of Packaging, Materials, Maintenance/Repair, and Operating Materials annual spend.
• Coordinate and supervise all aspects of purchasing of one or more of the following categories: Packaging (Carton, Film Labels, Pallets and etc), Masterpacks, MRO and other material and services as specified.
• Establish, monitor and update purchasing policies, procedures and practices, including cross functional dependencies and support driving organizational change.
• Develop project plans associated with improved processes within the department and cross functionally. Develop and manage projects that support change in suppliers/transitions/new items/equipment, etc.
• Support cost analysis and vendor performance measurement tools on an ongoing basis.
• Monitor departmental budget.
• Assist in researching materials, goods and services that would improve company productivity and/or lower costs.
• Authorize blanket purchase orders and sales agreements; recommend material sources to internal customers.
• Build, train and lead purchasing team in accordance with guidelines and goals established by VP Procurement.
• Coordinate all R&D, marketing and manufacturing needs associated with vendor approvals and procurement of supplies.
• Formulate and manage cost savings and innovation proposals both internally and externally.
• Responsible for staff management in establishing work schedules, vacation planning, mediating/resolving disputes and conflicts and meeting objectives of department.
• Execute plans and programs designed to provide high levels of customer service to internal customers.
• Responsible for ongoing communications with customers and assessment of their needs; assist in resolving local quality and service issues.
• Other duties as assigned.