VP of Procurement - Rice, Minnesota

Mission Hires is seeking a VP of Procurement on behalf of a food distribution company. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing product procurement, vendor negotiations, inventory and inbound freight programs, purchasing team performance, and annual marketing or merchandising initiatives. The successful candidate will strengthen profitability, service levels, cash flow, and purchasing efficiency while building strong customer and vendor relationships.

• Lead, coach, train, and manage procurement associates, including staffing, performance management, problem resolution, and professional development.
• Oversee all aspects of product procurement, including manufacturer program negotiations and vendor bill-back programs.
• Negotiate pricing, programs, and terms with vendors to support profitability and competitive purchasing outcomes.
• Manage inventory levels, inventory dollars, and proprietary inventory to optimize cash flow, financial performance, and customer service levels.
• Develop and implement purchasing procedures and process improvements that increase departmental efficiency and productivity.
• Maintain company fill-rate and service-level standards by ensuring product availability and timely issue resolution.
• Build and maintain professional, responsive relationships with customers and vendors; address inquiries accurately and promptly.
• Use food distribution industry knowledge to improve purchasing strategies, processes, and commercial results.
• Support the development and execution of annual marketing programs and, where applicable, oversee marketing and merchandising activities.
• Partner with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to achieve corporate goals and support organizational profitability.

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent experience.

• 6 to 10 years of procurement or related experience, including supervisory experience.

• Demonstrated experience managing vendor relationships, negotiating pricing and programs, and overseeing inventory performance.

• Strong leadership, coaching, performance management, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to balance inventory availability, service levels, profitability, and cash-flow objectives.

• Strong customer service, communication, and relationship-management skills.

• Knowledge of purchasing strategies and processes within the food distribution industry.

• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and perform responsibilities needed to support business priorities.

• (preferred) Bachelor's degree.

• (preferred) Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP).

• (preferred) 10+ years Procurement with supervisory/management experience in food service industry.

• Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits.
• Day 1 health and wellness benefits.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• 401(k) with employer matching.
• Education assistance.
• Paid time off.
• Growth opportunities supporting America's food distribution system.
• Safe, inclusive workplace culture focused on rewards, recognition, and respect.