[F&B] Purchasing Leader

- This position is responsible for overseeing all procurement, sourcing, and supply chain operations that support the central kitchen. This includes managing the complete ordering process for both commissary operations and individual store purchases, ensuring a seamless supply of goods across the network. This role ensures the efficient, compliant, and cost-effective flow of materials into the facility and finished goods out to stores, external clients, and partners.
- Key responsibilities include managing the importation of raw materials, ingredients, packaging, and equipment required for production, as well as coordinating internal distribution of finished products. This position oversees end-to-end procurement processes-supplier sourcing, contract negotiation, inventory management, delivery scheduling, and documentation-while maintaining quality, traceability, and compliance with both local and international regulations. This position collaborates with Production, QA/QC, Logistics, Finance, and Brand teams to align purchasing and supply strategies with production demand, sustainability goals, and business growth objectives.
* Procurement & Supplier Management
- Lead sourcing and procurement for food ingredients, packaging, OS&E, FFE, and project-related materials.
- Develop and manage a network of qualified local and international suppliers to ensure quality, price competitiveness, and reliability.
- Negotiate supplier contracts and long-term agreements with favorable commercial terms and rebate opportunities.
- Conduct regular supplier performance evaluations and audits.
- Maintain a comprehensive supplier database with specifications, certifications, and compliance documents.
- Attend trade shows, supplier meetings, and tastings to stay up to date on trends and innovations.
* Food, Beverage & Packaging Procurement
- Manage the purchasing of all raw materials, ingredients, and finished goods for multiple brands under East West.
- Verify that all purchased items meet QA/QC and brand quality standards.
- Support production planning by ensuring materials and packaging are available on time and in the right quantities.
- Partner with R&D for ingredient sourcing, sampling, and specification testing.
- Source innovative and sustainable packaging materials aligned with brand and environmental goals.
* OS&E and Project Procurement
- Lead procurement for kitchen equipment, tools, OS&E for the commissary and related facilities.
- Collaborate with project, engineering, and design teams to verify specifications and technical compliance.
- Manage tendering processes, compare bids, and evaluate suppliers for cost and quality.
- Track project procurement milestones, delivery timelines, and installation follow-ups.
* Procurement Process & Cost Control
- Review all purchase requisitions (PRs) and purchase orders (POs).
- Ensure adherence to company purchasing policies and financial approval processes.
- Evaluate bids and prepare detailed tender comparison sheets for decision-making.
- Monitor and analyze purchasing spend; submit monthly cost-saving and procurement performance reports to management.
- Identify opportunities for consolidation, process improvement, and cost optimization.
* Stakeholder Coordination & Cross-Functional Support
- Liaise closely with production, QA/QC, hygiene, finance, and logistics to align supply with operational needs.
- Communicate clearly with store and warehouse teams to ensure stock accuracy and availability.
- Support QA/QC in supplier audits and product verification processes.
- Provide purchasing insight to Finance for budgeting and forecasting.
- Partner with marketing and brand teams for promotional or product launch sourcing requirements.
* Sustainability & Compliance
- Promote green procurement by sourcing eco-friendly, recyclable, and energy-efficient materials and packaging.
- Support waste reduction and sustainability projects in partnership with operations and hygiene departments.
- Ensure compliance with all food safety, and environmental regulations.
- Maintain full traceability for all ingredients and products under HACCP