Senior Produce Sourcing & Category Strategist

Topco; Itasca (IL); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Topco Associates is seeking a Senior Sourcing Analyst to join our Produce Team in Itasca, IL. This hybrid role requires three days in the Itasca office and two days remote per week.

The Senior Sourcing Analyst will lead strategic sourcing, procurement, and category management for Produce, delivering cost optimization and value to Topco members. The role collaborates with Category Managers, suppliers, and internal teams to develop and execute sourcing strategies, conduct market analysis, and

Qualifications

• Five or more years of progressive experience in category management, sourcing, procurement, merchandising, retail operations, Produce, or related functions.
• Experience leading sourcing initiatives, supplier negotiations, and cross-functional projects.
• Grocery retail, wholesale, Produce, or food industry experience preferred.
• Experience analyzing market, pricing, supplier, and commodity data to support business decisions.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and execution of sourcing strategies for Produce categories.
• Manage category reviews from planning through implementation, ensuring timely execution and actionable recommendations for members.
• Conduct market research, supplier analysis, and commodity assessments to identify sourcing opportunities and mitigate supply risk.
• Evaluate supplier capabilities and recommend supplier selection based on quality, service, cost, innovation, and long-term value.
• Lead supplier negotiations and contract recommendations that support Topco's sourcing objectives.
• Monitor commodity markets and proactively communicate trends, risks, and opportunities impacting assigned categories.
• Identify productivity improvements, cost savings, and value creation opportunities across the category portfolio.
• Prepare financial analyses, sourcing models, and executive-level presentations supporting category strategy and member decision-making.

Skills

Strategic Sourcing

Procurement

Category Management

Analytical Skills

Excel Proficiency

PowerPoint

Negotiation

Cross-functional Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Accounting, Supply Chain Management, Marketing, or related field

MBA or other advanced business degree

Tools

Microsoft Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

Topco Associates is seeking a Senior Sourcing Analyst to join our Produce Team in Itasca, IL. This hybrid role requires three days in the Itasca office and two days remote per week.

The Senior Sourcing Analyst will lead strategic sourcing, procurement, and category management for Produce, delivering cost optimization and value to Topco members. The role collaborates with Category Managers, suppliers, and internal teams to develop and execute sourcing strategies, conduct market analysis, and