4+ years of experience in restaurant purchasing, with demonstrated experience in data analytics or business intelligence.
Proficiency in Excel, Google Sheets, and BI tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, Looker).
Strong analytical mindset with the ability to interpret complex data and translate it into actionable insights.
Broad knowledge of food & beverage, paper goods, housewares (china, glass, silver), and uniforms.
Familiarity with laws related to purchasing, vendor relations, and sales taxes.
Self-directed and comfortable in both leadership and collaborative roles.
Strong critical thinking and solution-focused approach; ability to independently analyze information and make strategic recommendations.
Responsibilities
Data Analytics & Reporting
Analyze procurement data to identify cost-saving opportunities, forecast demand, and improve vendor performance.
Design and maintain dashboards and reporting tools to monitor KPIs such as cost variance, supplier reliability, and inventory turnover.
Prepare and present market condition reports and merchandise cost analyses to leadership.
Maintain and implement purchasing and recordkeeping systems that support data integrity and transparency.
Collaborate with Finance and Operations to align purchasing strategies with broader business analytics and forecasting models.
Strategic Procurement & Vendor Management
Develop and manage procurement systems and processes to meet ilili's strategic, financial, and operational goals.
Evaluate, select, and establish relationships with vendors; negotiate contracts for goods and services.
Act as the company's representative in supplier negotiations, resolving grievances and ensuring service requirements are met.
Oversee the ordering of materials, supplies, and equipment from vendors by buyers.
Approve purchases and track their progress to ensure timely and accurate delivery.
Evaluate and approve conditions for issuing and awarding bids.
Draft, explain, and implement policies and procedures for purchasing and contract management.
Operational Oversight & Collaboration
Oversee the warehouse receiving department, ensuring accurate intake and documentation of goods.
Collaborate with other departments and leadership to identify and develop needs and requirements for equipment, materials, products, and acceptable substitutions.
Assess current material availability and reasonably predict future availability based on market trends, delivery systems, and other variables.
Prepare and process purchase orders and requisitions for materials, supplies, and equipment.
Review purchase orders for accuracy and ensure best pricing is obtained.
Assist culinary teams in designing order guides, storage systems, and inventory management protocols.
Support culinary teams in improving inventory performance and minimizing waste.
Lead purchasing efforts for New Store Openings (NSOs), including sourcing both perishable and non-perishable items.
Supervise, train, and develop employees within the department.