Senior Procurement Specialist - Protein

About the Company At Vitaco, our mission is to empower healthier lives through our world-class brands, including Healtheries, Nutra-Life, Musashi, and Athena. As a leading manufacturer and distributor of health food, sports nutrition, and supplement products in Australasia, we have been dedicated to helping individuals lead healthier lives for over a century. With a team of more than 650 members across New Zealand and Australia, we operate three in-house manufacturing sites and export our products to over 30 countries worldwide. Our high-quality offerings are readily available, whether online or on store shelves. Due to our ongoing growth, we are excited to announce a fantastic opportunity for a Senior Procurement Specialist (Protein) to join our dynamic Supply Chain team. About the Role In this newly created position, you will report directly to the Strategic Procurement Manager and take ownership of our Protein category portfolio. This pivotal role involves leading cost-saving and sourcing initiatives, with a primary focus on both animal and plant proteins, as well as supporting selected services and indirect materials. As the go-to expert for all matters related to protein, you will manage the entire procurement cycle—from market analysis and supplier negotiations to category strategy development and implementation. Your efforts will ensure a stable supply of materials that aligns with our strategic goals and day-to-day operational needs. Additionally, you will collaborate cross-functionally with teams across supply chain, planning, quality, finance, and new product development (NPD), while also engaging with key suppliers to secure optimal outcomes for Vitaco. Key Responsibilities - Develop and execute a commercially focused category strategy for all proteins. - Lead sourcing, negotiation, and supplier management for proteins and relevant indirect categories. - Ensure continuity of supply while balancing quality, cost, and risk. - Monitor market trends and provide regular commodity price insights to senior leadership. - Support new product development (NPD) with material sourcing and contract negotiation. - Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Requirements - A minimum of 7 years of procurement experience in a senior procurement or category management role, preferably within the FMCG sector. - Strong understanding of protein categories, supply chains, and supplier markets. - Proven experience in commodity buying along with excellent negotiation skills. - Ability to operate strategically while managing day-to-day priorities. - Proficiency in procurement tools and ERP systems. - Strong Excel and analytical skills. - Experience working cross-functionally in fast-paced, complex environments. - A relevant tertiary qualification in supply chain, commerce, science, or a related field. - CIPS, APICS, or NZPICS certification is preferred. - Experience working with both animal and plant proteins. Benefits At Vitaco, we offer more than just a job; we provide a rewarding career in a business driven by purpose and passion. As a recognized HRD 5-Star Employer of Choice, here’s what you can expect from us: - Competitive salary and flexible working arrangements, including work-from-home options. - Health and wellness perks, including discounts on our products and access to discounted health insurance. - Onsite benefits such as a subsidized café and wellness initiatives. - Wellbeing support, featuring access to in-house naturopaths and nutrition experts, as well as an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). - Continuous opportunities for learning and professional growth. - A healthy work-life balance, including a day off on your birthday. - A supportive, passionate, and innovative team culture. Join us on Vitaco's exciting growth journey! Apply today and help us continue to empower healthier lives around the world.