Purchasing Manager - LA Music Center

Job Listing: Purchasing Manager - LA Music Center

At Sodexo Live!, we take pride in crafting exceptional events at the most prestigious venues on the planet and creating lasting memories for fans, visitors, guests and team members. Working with Sodexo Live! is more than a job; it's a chance to be part of something greater. Here, you'll build a career where 'everyday' is anything but normal.

Our experiences are unique, and so are our people. Bring your personality, your background and your desire to delight others. In return, we'll give you all you need to thrive. After giving it all, you'll return home knowing that you've played your part in creating a truly unforgettable moment.

Location: We are seeking an experienced Purchasing Manager for the LA Music Center.

Unit Description:

The Music Center (officially The Music Center of Los Angeles County) is one of the largest and most prestigious performing arts centers in the United States. It is considered a cornerstone of LA's cultural life and plays a vital role in promoting the performing arts in the region and beyond.

Job Overview:

The Purchasing Manager plays a critical role in supporting Sodexo Live!'s mission to deliver exceptional guest experiences by ensuring that all food, beverage, and operational supplies are available, cost-effective, and meet the highest quality standards. This position is responsible for managing all aspects of procurement, receiving, inventory, and warehouse operations, while fostering strong partnerships with vendors and internal teams.

• Assist with procurement, vendor management, and inventory operations across all lines of business including catering, concessions, banquets, retail, operations, premium, and beverage.
• Source, negotiate, and manage vendor relationships to ensure quality, reliability, and competitive pricing.
• Evaluate and recommend new products, suppliers, and purchasing methods to improve quality, reduce costs, and enhance profitability.
• Monitor vendor compliance with contracts, delivery schedules, food safety, and service standards.
• Partner with finance to ensure accurate invoice reconciliation and resolve discrepancies.
• Oversee receiving, storage, and distribution of products, ensuring compliance with health department and food safety regulations.
• Implement and monitor inventory control systems, conduct regular audits, and minimize shrinkage and waste.
• Ensure proper maintenance of warehouse equipment and facilities to support safe, efficient operations.
• Utilize purchasing and inventory systems to track trends, costs, and performance.
• Lead, train, and develop purchasing and warehouse staff, fostering a culture of accountability and teamwork.
• Partner with the Executive Chef, General Manager, and operations teams to align purchasing strategies with menu needs, event schedules, and financial targets.
• Contribute to operational planning and budgeting, providing data-driven insight and recommendations.
• Maintain strong cross-department collaboration to ensure product needs are consistently met in a timely manner.

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Hospitality, or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 1+ years of purchasing, inventory, or warehouse management experience, preferably within food and beverage, hospitality, or venue operations.
• Experience managing staff and leading teams in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations.
• Financial acumen with experience in budgeting, cost analysis, and P&L accountability.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and purchasing/inventory management systems.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Highly organized, self-motivated, and able to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.

• Able to work effectively and safely while subject to wet floors, temperature extremes and excessive noise; must be able to lift up to 50 pounds in weight; must be able to maneuver in an often tightly-quartered environment.
• Hours may be extended or irregular to include nights, weekends and holidays.

• Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Coverage
• Identity Theft Protection
• Adoption Assistance