Procurement Manager

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is a major hub of transportation located in Newark, New Jersey. It serves millions of passengers annually, offering extensive services and amenities essential to facilitating global and domestic travel. Within this bustling environment, numerous restaurants cater to travelers seeking quality dining options. These restaurants operate under high-volume, fast-paced conditions that demand keen operational efficiency and expert management to ensure exceptional customer satisfaction and optimal business performance.

SSP America is a leading operator of food and beverage concessions in airports and travel locations throughout North America and globally. Dedicated to delivering high-quality dining experiences, SSP America partners with various local and international brands to provide diverse culinary options tailored to travelers' tastes. At Newark Liberty International Airport, SSP America manages multiple restaurant locations requiring precise and experienced oversight in food procurement and inventory management to maintain service excellence and cost control.

The role of Procurement Manager for On-Site Food and Beverage Operations at Newark Liberty International Airport is a vital, hands-on position designed for a professional who brings a deep understanding of food procurement beyond theoretical knowledge. This role involves direct engagement with restaurant General Managers and culinary teams to ensure the smooth functioning of multiple high-volume restaurant units within the airport. The Procurement Manager will be responsible for overseeing the daily and weekly ordering of food and beverage supplies, ensuring accurate receipt of goods, proper storage, consistent product rotation following first-in-first-out (FIFO) principles, and disciplined inventory control to minimize waste and spoilage.

This is a fully on-site role requiring an individual comfortable working in a dynamic and fast-paced food service environment. The successful candidate will have firsthand experience managing kitchens, controlling inventory par levels, and protecting food costs. Their responsibilities will include coaching restaurant management teams on ordering precision and waste reduction, reviewing invoices and resolving any billing discrepancies, and collaborating with operations leaders to safeguard profit margins while minimizing losses.

The position offers an annual salary of $75,000 with the potential for quarterly bonuses based on performance. A comprehensive benefits package accompanies the compensation, supporting the overall well-being and professional growth of the employee. This role reports directly to local Operations Leadership while maintaining partnership with Corporate Procurement to align on strategic goals and vendor compliance.

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of three years of hands-on experience in restaurant purchasing, kitchen management, or food inventory leadership. They should be well-versed in managing perishable food products including proteins, produce, dairy, and dry goods. They must be proficient in setting and adjusting par levels based on variables such as seasonal demand, sales trends, and airport traffic fluctuations. Expertise in conducting physical inventories and reconciling discrepancies is essential.

The role demands strong coaching capabilities to guide restaurant managers on improving ordering discipline and operational efficiency. Basic computer proficiency, including familiarity with email communication, inventory systems, and spreadsheet software, is required to effectively perform administrative duties. Being detail-oriented, hands-on, and able to influence others while holding them accountable will significantly contribute to success in this role.

Joining SSP America at Newark Liberty International Airport offers the opportunity to work within a high-profile airport setting that values quality, efficiency, and guest satisfaction. It is an ideal position for professionals seeking to leverage their food procurement knowledge and operational expertise in a dynamic environment where every decision impacts the customer experience and the company's bottom line.