Contract Manager, Supply Chain (14-Month Contract) MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE WITH SUPPLY OF CHICKEN The Contract Manager, Supply Chain is responsible for ensuring continuity of supply for assigned products, managing supplier and distributor relationships, supporting promotional product launches, overseeing inventory planning, and coordinating logistics operations. This role works cross-functionally with procurement, marketing, operations, quality assurance, suppliers, and distribution partners to minimize supply disruptions and maintain service levels. Key Responsibilities Supply Management Ensure continuous product availability and proactively manage supply risks, including transportation issues, raw material shortages, weather disruptions, and labor challenges. Collaborate with procurement teams on contingency planning and risk mitigation strategies. Manage relationships with suppliers and distribution centers. Monitor supplier capacity and performance to ensure quality and service expectations are met. Maintain product pricing and system updates. Promotions Planning & Inventory Management Support new product launches and promotional initiatives through effective planning and execution. Develop project timelines and coordinate activities with marketing, quality, and supplier teams. Monitor product approvals and ensure alignment with launch schedules. Manage inventory levels and distribution plans to support successful product rollouts and inventory depletion strategies. Distribution & Logistics Manage relationships with distribution centers and third-party logistics providers. Review distribution methods and transportation costs to optimize efficiency. Ensure compliance with distribution agreements and service requirements. Purchasing & Supplier Management Support supplier negotiations to achieve optimal landed costs. Evaluate supplier performance and recommend improvements to the supply base. Review pricing reports and investigate variances for resolution. Build and maintain strong supplier partnerships. Additional Responsibilities Prioritize workload to meet business needs and deadlines. Identify process improvements and operational efficiencies. Develop solutions to mitigate supply challenges and prevent service disruptions. Resolve distribution and supply chain issues in a timely manner. Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to support business objectives. Qualifications Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. 5–8+ years of supply chain, procurement, logistics, inventory planning, or supplier management experience. Experience managing suppliers, inventory, logistics, and cross-functional projects. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Preferred Skills Supply planning and inventory management Supplier relationship management Procurement and contract negotiation Logistics and distribution coordination Project management and promotional planning Stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration Continuous improvement and process optimization Key Competencies Strong communication and relationship-building skills Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment Strategic thinking and proactive problem solving Financial and business acumen Leadership, collaboration, and stakeholder management Ability to drive operational efficiencies and scalable processes