Category Manager, Procurement

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.

• 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.

• 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.

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

• 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, food service, 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.

• 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%.

• 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.…