Value Engineering Lead — Cost Optimization & Innovation

Sazerac; Louisville (KY); Hybrid; USD 98,000 - 147,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work

Medical, dental, vision benefits

401(k) plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Sazerac is seeking a Value Engineering Category Lead in Louisville to drive cost optimization across Procurement and related teams while maintaining product quality and brand integrity.

You will develop financial models, lead value engineering initiatives, and partner with Product Development, Manufacturing, Finance, Operations, and Brand teams to realize sustainable savings. This role emphasizes collaboration and strategic sourcing.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• 5+ years of experience in procurement, value engineering, strategic sourcing, commercial negotiations, or related supply chain function.
• Strong analytical, financial modeling, project management, and business case development skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders and lead complex initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Identify and lead value engineering initiatives that reduce cost of goods while maintaining product quality, regulatory compliance, and brand standards.
• Partner with Procurement, Product Development, Manufacturing, Finance, Operations, and Brand teams to evaluate, prioritize, and implement cost optimization opportunities.
• Develop financial models, business cases, and value engineering roadmaps to support strategic sourcing and cost reduction initiatives.
• Analyze manufacturing processes, ingredient sourcing, and supply chain opportunities to improve operational efficiency and long-term value.
• Drive cross-functional projects from concept through implementation while communicating progress, risks, and results to business leaders.

Skills

Procurement

Value engineering

Strategic sourcing

Cost optimization

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Sazerac is seeking a Value Engineering Category Lead in Louisville to drive cost optimization across Procurement and related teams while maintaining product quality and brand integrity.

You will develop financial models, lead value engineering initiatives, and partner with Product Development, Manufacturing, Finance, Operations, and Brand teams to realize sustainable savings. This role emphasizes collaboration and strategic sourcing.