A wonderful opportunity to join a dynamic team at a historic organization whose mission for over 100 years has been to help farmers. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Senior Purchasing and Strategic Sourcing Manager is responsible for leading the procurement and sourcing strategy for all direct and indirect materials, packaging, and services required for dairy processing operations. This role ensures cost-effective purchasing, supplier performance, risk mitigation, and alignment with the company’s quality and sustainability goals. This role plays a crucial part in supporting the financial and operational strategy and efficiency of the organization. The role is based at MMPA’s Novi, MI, headquarters.
The Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA), established in 1916, is a dairy farmer-owned and operated milk marketing cooperative and dairy processor. As the 10th largest dairy cooperative in the U.S., we proudly serve dairy farmers across Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, and Indiana. With a workforce of around 625 employees spread across four states, MMPA is deeply rooted in the dairy industry. We operate multiple facilities, including the Middlebury Cheese Company in Indiana, Superior Dairy in Ohio, and two SQF Level 3 dairy ingredient plants in Michigan. Our product lineup includes fluid milk, cheese, ultra-filtered milk, ice cream, butter, nonfat dry milk, cream, and condensed skim milk.
Why You’ll Love Working Here: At MMPA, we believe in investing in our people and fostering an environment where you can grow both personally and professionally. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll enjoy working with us:
- Competitive Salary: We offer a competitive salary to attract the best talent.
- Health & Wellness Benefits: Comprehensive medical coverage through Blue Cross Blue Shield, including mental health services to support your well-being.
- Disability Insurance: Protection for you in case of illness or injury.
- Paid Time Off: Enjoy a generous PTO package to maintain work-life balance.
- Retirement Benefits: Secure your future with 401k contributions from us.
- Growth Opportunities: We are committed to your personal and professional development.
- Employee Appreciation: We regularly host events to show our appreciation for your hard work and dedication.
- Wellness Initiatives: Participate in wellness programs designed to help you stay healthy and engaged.
- Employee Feedback: Your voice matters, and we offer forums for your suggestions and input.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Sourcing & Procurement
- Develop and implement sourcing strategies for raw milk, dairy ingredients, packaging, and operational supplies.
- Lead supplier selection, contract negotiations, and performance management.
- Monitor commodity markets and dairy industry trends to anticipate cost fluctuations and supply risks.
- Supplier Relationship Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure quality, reliability, and innovation.
- Conduct regular supplier evaluations and audits to ensure compliance with food safety and sustainability standards.
- Cost Optimization & Risk Management
- Identify cost-saving opportunities through value analysis, supplier consolidation, and process improvements.
- Develop contingency plans to mitigate supply chain disruptions.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with R&D, Quality Assurance, Production, and Finance to align sourcing strategies with business goals.
- Support new product development by sourcing innovative ingredients and materials.
- Data & Systems Management
- Utilize ERP systems to manage procurement activities, track KPIs, and generate reports.
- Analyze spend data and market intelligence to inform strategic decisions.
What We’re Looking For:
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Food Science, or related field (MBA preferred).
Experience:
- 7+ years of experience in procurement or strategic sourcing, preferably in the food or dairy industry.
- Strong negotiation, analytical, and project management skills.
- Knowledge of dairy supply chains, commodity markets, and food safety regulations.
- Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and Microsoft Excel.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to work independently
- Possess a strong attention to detail
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Possess strong interpersonal skills which includes the ability to effectively communicate with employees, vendors, and customers
- Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Power Point, and Outlook
Preferred Certifications:
- CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management)
- CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional)
- HACCP or SQF certification knowledge is a plus
Work Environment
- Primarily office-based with occasional travel as required.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
