Job Title: Director of Procurement
Location: Houston, Texas
Company Overview:
NatureBest Pre-Cut & Produce, LLC, is a dynamic and growth-oriented fresh fruit and vegetable processor backed by Vista Private Equity Group. Located in Houston, Texas, our journey since 2015 has been marked by significant milestones including the launch of a new brand, the establishment of two state-of-the-art facilities, expansion through acquisition, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in delivering the freshest produce. Our commitment to innovation, quality, and freshness has propelled us to significant growth each year under Vista’s ownership. We are a trusted partner to clients across the Southwest. At NatureBest, we are not just about fresh produce; we are about setting new standards in quality, safety, and customer satisfaction. Join us in our mission to deliver unparalleled freshness and quality, and be part of a team that values growth, learning, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Role Summary:
The Director of Procurement is a strategic role at the heart of our operations, pivotal to ensuring the continuous supply of high-quality produce. This executive, who reports directly to the CEO, will lead our procurement strategy, overseeing the negotiation of contracts with fruit and vegetable suppliers, and ensuring compliance with PACA regulations and USDA inspections across all commodities. The ideal candidate will be instrumental in driving our commitment to delivering quality produce with good yields, focusing primarily on produce over consumables.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the procurement team, setting strategic direction and objectives aligned with NatureBest's vision and growth goals.
- Negotiate and manage contracts with suppliers to secure the best terms, prices and geographic diversification while maintaining the highest standards of quality and reliability.
- Ensure rigorous compliance with PACA regulations, USDA inspections, and all relevant agricultural standards, fostering a culture of quality and safety.
- Oversee procurement across all commodities (both fruit and vegetables), adapting strategies to market changes and supplier performance to ensure uninterrupted supply and optimal cost efficiency.
- Collaborate closely with the Quality Control and Operations teams to ensure that procurement strategies support the delivery of high-quality produce with good yields.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, leveraging these partnerships to anticipate and mitigate risks to supply.
- Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes and systems, leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
- Champion sustainability and ethical sourcing practices within the procurement function, aligning with NatureBest’s commitment to environmental stewardship and corporate responsibility.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Agriculture, or a related field.
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in procurement or supply chain management, with a significant portion of that time spent in a leadership role, ideally within the food processing or agricultural sectors.
- Proven track record of successful contract negotiation and supplier management, particularly with fruit and vegetable suppliers.
- Deep knowledge of PACA regulations, USDA inspections, and quality standards related to fresh produce.
- Experience managing procurement for a wide range of commodities, including fruit (melons, mangos, citrus, etc.) and vegetables (greens, peppers, jalapenos, onions, tomatoes, etc.)
- Demonstrated ability to lead teams, drive strategic initiatives, and achieve results in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and analytical skills.
- Strong commitment to quality, sustainability, and ethical sourcing.
What We Offer:
- The opportunity to play a key role in a rapidly growing company with a clear mission to deliver the highest quality fresh produce.
- A competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- A dynamic, innovative, and supportive work environment where your contributions are valued and celebrated.
- The chance to work with a dedicated team of professionals passionate about making a difference in the food industry.
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience, and why they are the best fit for this role at NatureBest Pre-Cut & Produce, LLC. Please include examples of past achievements in procurement, supplier management, and leadership.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $1.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 10 hour shift
- 12 hour shift
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday
- Overtime
- Weekends as needed
Experience:
- Produce: 1 year (Required)
- Procurement: 2 years (Preferred)
- Contract Negotiation: 2 years (Preferred)
Language:
Ability to Commute:
- Missouri City, TX 77489 (Preferred)
Ability to Relocate:
- Missouri City, TX 77489: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person