Strategic Purchasing Specialist

The Strategic Purchasing Specialist plays a key role within the Merchandise Supply Chain organization, supporting the Strategic Purchasing function in the sourcing and procurement of food, beverage, packaging, and operational supply items for QuickChek and Murphy USA. This position works closely with the Strategic Purchasing Manager to support supplier sourcing initiatives, vendor negotiations, contract administration, and supplier performance management.

The Strategic Purchasing Specialist will leverage data and cross-functional collaboration to support cost optimization, supplier performance, and supply continuity. This role will assist in the execution of sourcing strategies, evaluation of supplier capabilities, and monitoring of vendor performance to ensure reliable and cost-effective supply across multiple merchandise categories.

This position collaborates regularly with Category Management, Culinary, Marketing, Accounting, Inventory Management, Replenishment Merchandise Support, and Store Operations, as well as external suppliers and distribution partners. Initially focused on supporting food and beverage sourcing for QuickChek, this role will help build scalable sourcing processes designed to support broader merchandise categories across the enterprise over time.

1. Support the Strategic Purchasing Manager in executing sourcing strategies across food, beverage, packaging, operational supply categories, and other Merchandise categories.
2. Assist with sourcing events including Requests for Proposal (RFPs), supplier outreach, bid analysis, and supplier evaluation.
3. Perform spend analysis, pricing comparisons, and cost modeling to support sourcing decisions and vendor negotiations.
4. Assist with supplier onboarding activities, including vendor setup coordination with internal teams and distribution partners.
5. Monitor supplier performance metrics including pricing trends, fill rates, product quality, and contract compliance.
6. Support the development and maintenance of supplier performance scorecards and sourcing analytics.
7. Maintain pricing agreements, contracts, and procurement documentation to ensure alignment with negotiated terms.
8. Collaborate with Category Management, Culinary, and Marketing teams to support new product launches, menu innovation, and promotional programs.
9. Assist in identifying opportunities for supplier consolidation, cost optimization, and operational efficiency.
10. Support SKU rationalization initiatives through product performance analysis and supply chain evaluation.
11. Partner with Inventory Management, Replenishment, and distribution partners to support reliable product availability.
12. Develop reports and analytical tools to support supplier management, cost tracking, and sourcing initiatives.
13. Communicate sourcing insights, supplier performance updates, and cost trends to cross-functional stakeholders.
14. Perform any other related duties as required or assigned.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty mentioned satisfactorily. 

Broad knowledge of such fields as business administration, supply chain management, finance, merchandising, procurement, or related disciplines. Equivalent to a four-year college degree, plus one (1) or more years of experience and/or training in procurement, supply chain, sourcing, retail operations, or a related business function, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience working with data analysis, vendor coordination, or cross-functional business teams is preferred. Exposure to retail, convenience retail, foodservice, or consumer packaged goods industries is considered beneficial but not required. Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, is expected.