Manager, Supply Management

We are an employment agency and seeking the Manager, Supply Management for an Exclusive Japanese Dining. This opportunity is with a fast-growing Japanese fine dining group backed by a major Japanese hospitality and entertainment conglomerate. The company is expanding its footprint in the U.S. with a high-end multi-concept restaurant collection that blends cultural authenticity with modern elegance.

This position plays a key role in ensuring the seamless procurement, inventory control, and cost-effective sourcing of kitchen materials and restaurant supplies for our premium Japanese food service operation. This position supports the company’s quality standards and business goals through analytical planning, vendor collaboration, and hands-on engagement with chefs and store teams.

We are looking for a proactive, goal-driven leader with strong negotiation skills and a passion for authentic cuisine, inventory management, and vendor relations.

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●Company Industry: Exclusive Japanese Dining Restaurant
●Salary: $81,120 / Annual Salary
●Employment type: Full time
●Location: Brea, CA
●Language: Japanese / English

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* Responsibilities and Duties:

• Lead the daily and weekly purchasing of ingredients, beverages, and restaurant supplies.

• Oversee inventory levels and implement effective stock control practices.

• Conduct and reconcile monthly inventory checks with store and kitchen staff.

• Ensure recipe compliance and food quality standards set by chefs.

• Maintain detailed records of purchases, vendor communications, and pricing history.

• Forecast purchasing needs based on demand trends and seasonal fluctuations.

• Analyze procurement data to identify opportunities for cost savings and waste reduction.

• Recommend and negotiate with vendors to secure optimal pricing, quality, and service.

• Build strong relationships with chefs, store teams, and suppliers to support operational success.

• Evaluate market trends, vendor promotions, and product availability to guide purchasing decisions.

• Assist in managing the purchasing budget and contribute to procurement planning.

• Support Accounts Payable in resolving PO discrepancies and ensuring invoice accuracy.

• Visit store locations and suppliers regularly to monitor quality and gather feedback.

• Ensure adherence to company sourcing policies, safety regulations, and compliance standards.

• Prepare weekly reports and present findings during internal sourcing meetings.

• Use inventory and procurement systems, including Excel, ERP, and POS software, to manage workflow.

• Train, mentor, and lead supply coordinators or purchasing assistants, if applicable.

Further details will be explained during the interview.

* Qualifications & Preferences:

• Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Hospitality Management, or a related field or equivalent relevant experience.

• Experience: Minimum 3 years of purchasing or supply chain experience in restaurants, hospitality, or food service operations.

• Industry Knowledge: Familiarity with Japanese cuisine and upscale restaurant standards.

• Technical Skills: Strong Excel proficiency, ERP/inventory software knowledge, and familiarity with POS systems.

• Certifications: CPP, CSCP, or other supply chain/purchasing certifications (preferred, not required).

• Analytical Skills: Demonstrated ability to analyze data, identify trends, and implement practical solutions.

• Communication: Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills with the ability to work cross-functionally.

• Language: Japanese proficiency strongly preferred (N1 or business-level).

• Certification: Sommelier or Certified Sake Professional certification strongly preferred.

• Travel: Willingness and ability to travel regularly to store locations, vendor sites, and events as needed including within California and occasionally to other states.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $81,120.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person