Category Buyer F&B

Join the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: Where Every Voyage is a Symphony of Luxury

Embark on an extraordinary journey with the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, an exquisite extension of the renowned Ritz-Carlton brand, dedicated to redefining ultra-luxury hospitality at sea. As a "Lady or Gentleman" of our esteemed team, you'll be entrusted with the art of delivering the impeccable "Gold Standards" that have made the Ritz-Carlton an epitome of excellence across the globe.

The Essence of Excellence: The Gold Standards

The Gold Standards are the bedrock of the Ritz-Carlton experience, setting us apart in the industry and establishing a legacy of unparalleled service. These standards embody the values and culture that define our brand, and serve as the compass guiding our every endeavor.

The Employee Promise

At The Ritz-Carlton, our Ladies and Gentlemen are the most important resource in our service commitment to our guests. By applying the principles of trust, honesty, respect, integrity and commitment, we nurture and maximize talent to the benefit of each individual and the company. The Ritz-Carlton fosters a work environment where diversity is valued, quality of life is enhanced, individual aspirations are fulfilled, and the Ritz-Carlton Mystique is strengthened.

Join us on a journey where every day is a testament to the highest standard of luxury and service. Apply now and be part of an unparalleled legacy in hospitality.

Job Summary

The Category Buyer F&B is responsible for all Food & Beverage category procurement activities for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, including strategic category management, supply chain planning and fulfillment, procurement quality, and supplier relationships.

Essential Functions

Category Management, Bidding processes

Define appropriate buying strategy for Food and Beverage supply worldwide with a clear understanding of Portfolio needs, and internal and external requirements.

Constantly update market trends and price developments on all main subcategories.

Continually review supplier markets to develop alternative supply options, and identify value engineering opportunities, and cost avoidance.

Promote and develop innovative purchasing methodologies and systems and collaborate with Logistics to define the best transportation method according to delivery schedule.

Manage Risks & Ensure Contractual Integrity by ensuring full signature of T&Cs and Item Specifications before awarding business.

Negotiate purchase price, payment terms, and contractual conditions to achieve the lowest economical cost consistent with quality, service, and operational performance requirements.

Place and continuously manage contracts in line with purchasing policies at agreed service levels and KPIs.

Ensure an effective bidding process is established for all items purchased, evaluating bids and making recommendations based on commercial and technical factors.

Establish product specifications for new products based on requirements provided by the Cruise Hotel operations team and manage the product specifications and item set-up in the procurement-inventory system (MXP).

Manage and maintain supplier relationships including identifying and sourcing potential suppliers.

Ensure that goods are shipped in compliance with Public Health regulations and according to international shipping regulations.

Establish and maintain strong and effective internal communications including regular department meetings to ensure optimum teamwork and productivity.

Strong collaboration with Logistics/Fulfillment and warehouse operations team.

Participate in Lessons Learned and Product evaluation post-delivery.

May guide junior positions (i.e., Supply Chain Specialist).

May travel to attend trade shows, audit suppliers, visit ships for loadings, repositioning, etc.

Competency

Education:

A bachelor’s degree in business administration is desired, or 4-5 years of significant exposure to international markets of luxury hospitality

Skills & Experience

Experience in vendor negotiations and contracting with a strong network and relationships with vendors, port agents, and logistic companies on a global scale

Proven experience in managing procurement and logistic operations in remote areas

In-depth knowledge of customs regulations, port rules, and clearance formalities, ensuring efficient and compliant operations

High degree of knowledge in all aspects of strategic sourcing and category management including financial results, supplier and employee relations

Excellent problem-solving and the ability to manage multiple priorities while meeting deadlines

Proven ability to understand, coordinate, and lead the development of budgets, staffing plans, and workflows to meet the needs of guests, employees, and budgetary requirements

High achievement drive & customer focus, commitment to continuous improvement

Impeccable organizational skills and attention to detail

Proficiency with MS Office Suite

Proficiency with inventory management software systems (i.e. MMS, AMOS, CrunchTime, SAP or MXP)

Good interpersonal skills

Strong awareness of quality control standards and practices

Ability to operate independently

Ability to work under pressure

Fluent English is a MUST and additional languages are a plus

Work Environment

Works in a typical office environment. Travel may be required, including internationally.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is an Equal opportunity, inclusive employer and will consider all applicants for employment with the Company on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.

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