Category Buyer - Ingredients & Raw Materials

Unigrà is an international leader in the production of high-quality raw materials, semi-finished products, and finished goods for the Food Industry, Artisan, Retail, and Ho.Re.Ca. sectors. Our success is built on a vertically integrated supply chain and a constant commitment to innovation. With more than 1,800 employees, 5 production sites worldwide (Italy, Brazil, and Malaysia), and a commercial presence in over 100 countries, we combine cutting-edge technologies and sustainability to drive growth in the global food market. Our values: Innovation, Transparency, and Passion. To strengthen our Procurement Department, we are looking for a Category Buyer - Ingredients & Raw Materials, responsible for the strategic and operational management of assigned purchasing categories. The Role To support the continued growth of the Group, we are seeking a Category Buyer - Ingredients & Raw Materials who will be responsible for defining and driving sourcing strategies for some of the company's key strategic raw material categories. The scope of responsibility includes: Cocoa derivatives Sugar Cereal derivatives Ingredients and raw materials for plant-based beverages Ingredients and semi-finished products for gelato applications The successful candidate will act as a key reference point for commodity market monitoring, sourcing strategy development, and supply risk management, making a significant contribution to the competitiveness and sustainability of the business. The role aims to ensure the availability of raw materials, cost competitiveness, innovation, and the development of long-term strategic partnerships with key suppliers at both national and international levels. The position also includes the coordination of a dedicated team and close collaboration with the Quality, Research & Development, Production, Supply Chain, Planning, Finance, and Controlling functions. Key Responsibilities Strategic Sourcing & Commodity Management Define, develop, and implement sourcing strategies for assigned categories in alignment with business objectives. Continuously monitor commodity markets, including trends, price movements, market dynamics, and macroeconomic factors. Contribute to the definition of hedging strategies and risk management policies related to raw material price volatility. Identify opportunities for cost optimization, supplier base rationalization, and performance improvement. Support senior management in developing medium- and long-term procurement strategies. Market Intelligence & Forecasting Analyze global market developments and key economic indicators affecting procurement categories. Develop forecasting scenarios and management reports to support strategic decision-making. Provide insights on market risks and opportunities, contributing to effective and sustainable sourcing plans. Supplier Relationship Management Identify, evaluate, and develop strategic suppliers at both local and international levels. Build long-term partnerships focused on innovation, quality, and supply continuity. Negotiate framework agreements, supply contracts, and complex commercial terms. Manage supplier scouting and qualification processes to ensure diversification and risk mitigation. Performance & Risk Management Lead Vendor Rating and Supplier Performance Management processes. Monitor KPIs related to quality, service, reliability, sustainability, and cost competitiveness. Define and coordinate supplier improvement plans. Support the management of critical issues and non-conformities in collaboration with the relevant internal stakeholders. Leadership & Team Management Lead, coach, and develop the assigned team, promoting a culture of continuous improvement. Foster cross-functional collaboration among all departments involved in procurement activities. Contribute to the enhancement and digitalization of procurement processes. Candidate Profile We are looking for a managerial professional with strong strategic vision, advanced analytical capabilities, and proven experience in managing food commodity categories within complex industrial environments characterized by high market volatility. The ideal candidate combines deep market expertise, strong negotiation skills, and effective leadership, transforming market intelligence into actionable decisions and tangible business value. Requirements Education Degree in Economics, Management Engineering, Food Science and Technology, or a related field. A Master's degree in Procurement, Supply Chain, or Economics/Finance will be considered a plus. Experience At least 7-10 years of experience in Procurement within structured industrial companies operating in the food ingredients or food manufacturing sector. Proven expertise in managing highly volatile commodity categories. Solid experience in negotiating with strategic suppliers at both national and international levels. Previous experience in leading and developing teams. Technical Competencies Strong knowledge of food commodity markets and their economic dynamics. Proven experience in sourcing strategy development and risk management. Knowledge of Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) and Vendor Rating processes. Strong analytical, financial evaluation, and forecasting skills. Advanced proficiency in Excel, Power BI, and Business Intelligence tools. Familiarity with commercial contracts, framework agreements, and industrial procurement processes. Languages Excellent command of English, both written and spoken. Soft Skills Strategic mindset and strong business acumen. Strong leadership and people development capabilities. Excellent negotiation and influencing skills. Analytical and data-driven approach. Results-oriented mindset. Ability to thrive in complex, dynamic, and international environments. Strong interpersonal and cross-functional collaboration skills. What We Offer A strategic role with high visibility within a leading international food group. The opportunity to directly influence sourcing strategies and business competitiveness. A dynamic, fast-growing, and innovation-driven environment. Significant autonomy and responsibility in managing key procurement categories. Professional and managerial development opportunities within an international organization. Location Conselice (Ravenna), Italy Travel Requirements Availability to travel within Italy and internationally to suppliers, production sites, and Group companies. Compensation & Benefits Indicative salary range: €45,000 – €55,000 gross annual salary (RAL)