Head of Procurement – Protein

Full-time | On-site | Based in the Hyattsville, MD area | Relocation Support Available

Overview

A well-established regional food distributor undergoing significant expansion in its protein program is seeking a Head of Procurement – Protein to lead all purchasing and strategic sourcing initiatives across poultry and other protein categories. This role is critical to building a high-performing, scalable procurement function focused on wholesale sourcing, supply continuity, margin growth, and long-term vendor partnerships.

The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in protein procurement—especially poultry—paired with proven success in market analysis, vendor negotiations, and cross-functional leadership. This is a highly collaborative, on-site leadership role designed for a strategic thinker who can also execute hands-on in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.

Qualifications

Required Experience

• 5–10 years in poultry and protein procurement, ideally in wholesale or trading environments.

• Strong vendor management skills with both producers and distributors.

• Expertise in contract negotiation, pricing analysis, and supply chain dynamics within the protein industry.

• Demonstrated ability to manage sourcing strategies across multiple protein categories.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background as a Senior Buyer, Procurement Manager, or Director in the protein sector.

• Experience with cost modeling and multi-sourcing strategy.

• Familiarity with food safety, traceability, and industry compliance regulations.

• Track record of success within protein distribution or foodservice supply chains.

Work Environment

• Location: Hyattsville, MD

• Schedule: On-site, Monday–Friday

• Relocation: Supported for qualified candidates; remote flexibility during initial transition may be considered.

Compensation

Salary Range: $125,000 – $170,000
(Final offer based on experience and seniority)

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Procurement Leadership

• Lead procurement strategy and execution across all protein categories: poultry, beef, pork, and seafood.

• Define and implement sourcing strategies aimed at cost optimization, quality improvement, and supply chain resilience.

• Establish and manage strong relationships with producers and distributors, focusing on pricing leverage, delivery reliability, and product quality.

• Lead contract negotiations, set vendor performance benchmarks, and manage service-level agreements.

Market Intelligence & Inventory Management

• Oversee inventory planning in coordination with operations and warehouse teams to ensure just-in-time availability and waste reduction.

• Monitor protein market trends, commodity pricing, and global supply chain risks to drive informed purchasing decisions.

• Develop dynamic forecasts and procurement plans aligned with seasonal patterns and customer demands.

• Utilize spend analytics and KPI tracking to evaluate vendor performance and identify savings opportunities.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Team Development

• Work closely with quality assurance, culinary, and sales teams to align procurement activities with product standards, traceability, and compliance requirements.

• Support organizational integration following recent expansion, helping shape internal processes and team growth within the protein division.

• Serve as a key partner to legacy team members and executive leadership in building a best-in-class procurement operation.

Ideal Candidate Profile

We’re looking for a results-oriented procurement leader with deep protein category knowledge and a passion for building scalable operations. This role suits someone who thrives in a collaborative, entrepreneurial environment and is motivated to help shape the company’s next phase of growth.