Job Description

A&F Souvenir is looking for a talented Director of Procurement and Purchasing to join our team!

We invite interested candidates to submit their applications for the Director of Procurement and Purchasing by our specified deadline of 7/9/2025. This deadline ensures a timely and efficient review process, allowing us to move forward with selecting the most suitable candidate. We encourage you to apply before this date via our website at thessagroup.com to ensure your application is considered in the initial review phase. Applications received after the deadline may be considered on a case-by-case basis, subject to the position's availability.

A&F Souvenir

Director of Procurement and Purchasing

Cincinnati, OH (On-site, 5 days/week)

Reports to: CEO

Supervises: Purchasing Associates

Company Overview

A&F Souvenir is a leading provider of quality souvenir and gift merchandise, serving retail locations, tourist destinations, cultural attractions and specialty markets across the region. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional products that capture memorable experiences for our customers.

Position Summary

The Director of Procurement and Purchasing will lead our procurement strategy and operations, overseeing the sourcing, negotiation, and acquisition of merchandise and materials essential to our business operations. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong analytical skills who can optimize our supply chain while maintaining quality standards and cost efficiency. The successful candidate will manage vendor relationships, lead a purchasing team, and drive initiatives that support our company's growth and profitability.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Procurement Leadership

• Develop and implement comprehensive purchasing strategies aligned with company objectives and market trends
• Analyze market conditions, supplier capabilities, and industry trends to inform procurement decisions
• Establish and maintain procurement policies, procedures, and best practices
• Lead cross-functional teams in new product development and sourcing initiatives
• Drive cost reduction initiatives while maintaining quality and service standards

Vendor Management & Relationships

• Identify, evaluate, and develop relationships with domestic and international suppliers
• Negotiate contracts, terms, and pricing agreements to optimize value and minimize risk
• Conduct regular supplier performance reviews and implement improvement plans
• Manage supplier diversity programs and ensure compliance with company standards
• Resolve vendor-related issues and disputes in a timely and professional manner

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of purchasing professionals
• Establish performance metrics and conduct regular team performance evaluations
• Provide training and development opportunities to enhance team capabilities
• Foster a collaborative and results-driven team environment
• Recruit and hire qualified purchasing staff as needed

Operations & Analytics

• Oversee inventory planning and management to optimize stock levels and reduce carrying costs
• Implement and maintain purchasing systems and technologies to improve efficiency
• Analyze purchasing data and generate reports on key performance indicators
• Ensure compliance with company policies, industry regulations, and ethical standards
• Collaborate with finance, operations, and sales teams to support business objectives

Required Qualifications

• Education & Experience
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or related field
• Minimum 7-10 years of progressive purchasing experience, with at least 3-5 years in leadership roles
• Experience in retail, manufacturing, or consumer goods industries preferred
• Proven track record of managing complex supplier relationships and negotiations
• Technical Skills
• Proficiency in ERP systems and purchasing software (Netsuite preferred)
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel
• Strong analytical and data interpretation skills
• Understanding of international trade, logistics, and supply chain principles
• Knowledge of procurement regulations and compliance requirements

Core Competencies

• Excellent negotiation and communication skills
• Strong leadership and team development abilities
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities
• Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities
• Cultural sensitivity and ability to work with international suppliers
• Adaptability and resilience in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional certifications such as CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) or CPIM (Certified in Production and Inventory Management) are valuable.
• Experience with souvenir, gift, or novelty merchandise sourcing
• Bilingual capabilities (Spanish, Mandarin, or other relevant languages)
• Experience with sustainable and ethical sourcing practices
• Experience with non-China international markets, such as Thailand, Bangladesh, Vietnam is a strong asset

What We Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching
• Paid time off and holiday benefits
• Professional development opportunities and tuition reimbursement
• Collaborative and supportive work environment
• Opportunity to make a significant impact on company growth and success

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in an office environment for extended periods
• Occasional travel to supplier locations and trade shows (estimated 10-15% travel)
• Ability to lift and move product samples and materials up to 25 pounds

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their relevant experience and qualifications. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace.

A&F Souvenir is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Compensation and Benefits

• Full-Time, Exempt
• Final compensation determined by experience, education, and internal equity
• Flexible Vacation or Time Away From Work (TAFW) plan: no accruals; employees are encouraged to
• schedule time off as needed within business scope.
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance and other voluntary benefits for you and your family; employee
• premiums applicable.
• Participation in a 401(k) program with a 15% company match (eligible after one year of employment).
• Short-Term Disability and Long-Term Disability, employer sponsored; scaled-salary pay following
• submission and approval of leave
• Birthing Parent Plan covers up to (6-8) weeks fully paid leave, based on the birthing event
• (4) Week fully paid Parental leave following birth, adoption or foster event, can be coupled with Birthing
• Parent Plan to extend above timeline
• Up to 5 days Paid Bereavement Leave
• $75 monthly cell phone stipend
• Accrued paid sick leave provided in accordance with state law, state/location confirmed in job posting

SSA Holdings, LLC. is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion in our hiring practices. We believe a diverse team strengthens our impact, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

All California Residents: By submitting your job application, you agree you have reviewed the SSA Group California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) Candidate and Employee Privacy Notice ("Notice").

San Francisco Residents: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Please see the "Fair Chance Ordinance - Know Your Rights" document for more information. By submitting your job application, you agree you have reviewed the "Fair Chance Ordinance - Know Your Rights" document.

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