Protein Procurement Manager

The Protein Procurement Manager is responsible for the end-to-end management of the protein category, including ground beef, hot dogs, and bacon for Five Guys across the United States and Canada. This role leads supplier engagement, pricing and negotiation strategies, specification development, inventory management, and distribution coordination to ensure a consistent, high-quality, and cost-effective protein supply. The position works closely with protein suppliers, processors, distributors, and internal stakeholders to evaluate sourcing options, manage commodity and formula pricing, oversee quality and food safety compliance, and support operational needs.

The Protein Procurement Manager provides market insight and reporting, conducts supplier and facility audits, supports franchisees and distribution centers, and develops contingency plans to mitigate supply risk while maintaining Five Guys’ product and quality standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
 Develop and maintain specifications for ground beef, hot dogs, and bacon.
 Lead RFP processes, supplier negotiations, and relationship management.
 Identify, evaluate, and approve potential protein suppliers for new and existing markets.
 Conduct regular site visits and yearly business reviews with processors and distributors.
 Assess processor capabilities, packing/processing equipment, and distribution capacity.
 Develop contingency plans to ensure continuous and risk-free supply availability.
 Manage pricing, benchmarking, cost unbundling, credits, and other financial aspects of the protein category.
 Provide monthly market updates on raw materials and protein categories, including regional market data.
 Implement procurement strategies and pricing policies in the cash basis and protein futures markets.
 Review all company contracts involving protein vendors and suppliers prior to submission to the Director of Supply Chain
 Participates in the purchase, pricing, and maintenance of future accounts for all protein commodity activity.
 Ensure adherence to HACCP, BRC, SQF, Five Guys specifications, and other food safety and quality programs.
 Conduct QC audits and product testing to validate product quality and compliance.
 Oversee product quality controls including batch sheets, microbiological testing, lab testing, and in-store evaluations.
 Maintain the Quality Control database (FoodLogiQ) in partnership with Supply Chain QA/QC.
 Monitor trim suppliers, review third-party audits, and stay informed on industry issues.
 Manage daily inventory and lead order adjustments to prevent out-of-stocks or shelf-life risks.
 Lead PIF and credit management, analyze trends, and provide feedback to suppliers.
 Create and distribute performance, quality, and PIF trend reports to drive supplier accountability.
 Support processors, distributors, stores, and franchisees with quality-related questions or concerns.

Qualifications Guidelines:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education/Experience:
4 year college degree in agriculture, meat science or a related discipline preferred or equivalent industry experience.

10+ years progressive protein category management/sourcing/sales with expertise in supplier management and pricing strategy.

Prior experience working for QSR or major supplier in the protein market.

Language Ability :
Excellent verbal and written skills are necessary and communicate effectively across functions.

Reasoning Ability:
The position requires strong organizational and planning skills, as well as pragmatic analyzing skills and problem-solving abilities

Computer Skills:
Exceptional computer skills required in Microsoft Office Suite including Excel/PowerPoint, Internet, and other appropriate software.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
This position requires no supervisory responsibilities

Physical Demands:
Frequent travel will be required based on business needs, approximately 50% of the time.

The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position.

Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor, policy and company management.

Work location and onsite attendance requirements will be determined by the company in accordance with company practice and business needs.