Procurement Category Manager

Hybrid | Permanent Position

We’re looking for an experienced procurement skilled who is passionate about delivering results, demonstrates strong leadership, and contributes to a high-performing, team-oriented environment.

In this role, you will act as a key driver of category strategy, supplier relationships, and supply continuity, helping deliver value across the organization and its partners.

About UPGC

UPGC is a Canadian Company supporting 3 iconic brands, KFC, Taco Bell & Pizza Hut! Certified as a Great Place to Work for the last 9 years. At UPGC we are a small but mighty team leading the purchasing & distribution functions for all goods and services supplied to our KFC, Pizza Hut & Taco Bell franchisees' restaurants.

About the Role

As a Procurement Category Manager, you will lead the development and execution of category plans, ensuring optimal sourcing, cost efficiency, and supply reliability. You will partner closely with suppliers, brand stakeholders, and franchise partners to identify strategic opportunities and deliver measurable value.

This is an established, permanent role offering the opportunity to make a meaningful impact across multiple categories in a collaborative and fast-paced environment.

What You’ll Do

- Manage procurement activities for assigned categories, ensuring the best balance of cost, quality, and service
- Lead end-to-end sourcing processes including data collection, RFPs, analysis, negotiation, and contract execution
- Oversee day-to-day category operations (pricing, supply continuity, logistics, promotions, etc.)




- Develop and implement category and sourcing strategies aligned with business goals
- Build and maintain strong supplier partnerships, including performance management and business reviews
- Identify and monitor market trends, providing insights on pricing and cost drivers
- Develop contingency plans and risk mitigation strategies to ensure supply continuity
- Manage budgets, forecasts (LEs), and support Annual Operating Plan (AOP) processes
- Prepare reports and presentations for leadership and Board-level stakeholders
- Lead and support a direct report, ensuring development, accountability, and team success
- Collaborate cross-functionally to drive continuous improvement across procurement and supply chain
- Represent the organization in stakeholder meetings and supplier engagements
- Travel domestically as needed for supplier visits, negotiations, and industry events

What You Bring

- 5–7 years of experience in procurement or category management
- Strong experience in sourcing, negotiations, and supplier relationship management
- Proven leadership or mentoring experience (direct people leadership is an asset)
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
- Strong project management and organizational capabilities




- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills
- Experience developing category strategies is considered an asset

Industry Experience (Preferred)

- Food service, food manufacturing, or consumer goods industries
- Robust understanding of supply chain dynamics and market trends

Education & Certifications

- Post-secondary degree or diploma in Business or a related field (or equivalent experience)
- SCMA, SCMP designation or equivalent is considered an asset
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office tools

Compensation & Benefits

- Base Salary: $90,000 – $105,000 (based on experience)
- Bonus Eligibility
- Comprehensive Benefits Package
- Hybrid Work Environment

Why Join Us?

- Play a strategic role in an established and growing procurement function
- Work in a collaborative, team-oriented environment
- Opportunity to lead and develop talent
- Exposure to cross-functional leadership and supplier partnerships

Equal Prospect Statement UPGC is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including those from diverse backgrounds and underrepresented communities.

UPGC is committed to providing accommodations for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require an accommodation, please let us know, and we will work with you to meet your needs in accordance with applicable legislation.

This posting is for an existing position within the organization and is not a newly created role.

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