Italian Ingredient Sourcing Specialist

Job Summary Sotto Sotto Restaurant is seeking a detail-oriented and resourceful Italian Ingredient Sourcing Specialist to support the sourcing, evaluation, and procurement of quality ingredients for restaurant operations. This position focuses on identifying reliable suppliers, researching specialty Italian food products, monitoring ingredient availability, and coordinating purchases to meet kitchen requirements. The successful candidate will work closely with chefs, restaurant management, vendors, and distributors to maintain ingredient quality, support cost-effective purchasing, and ensure essential products are available when needed. The ideal candidate has strong research and organizational skills, an understanding of food sourcing, and an interest in Italian cuisine. Key Responsibilities Research and identify suppliers for Italian ingredients, including cheeses, olive oils, tomatoes, pasta, flour, herbs, cured meats, and specialty products. Evaluate potential suppliers based on product quality, pricing, availability, reliability, and delivery capabilities. Coordinate with chefs and kitchen managers to understand ingredient specifications and sourcing requirements. Request product samples, quotations, specifications, and relevant supplier documentation. Compare supplier offers and help identify cost-effective purchasing opportunities without compromising quality. Maintain accurate records of approved vendors, product specifications, pricing, and sourcing activities. Monitor seasonal availability, market conditions, and changes in ingredient costs. Assist with purchase planning and communicate sourcing updates to restaurant management. Verify that sourced products meet established quality standards and agreed specifications. Coordinate with suppliers regarding order quantities, substitutions, delivery schedules, and product availability. Help resolve sourcing issues involving delayed shipments, unavailable ingredients, or inconsistent product quality. Support inventory planning by reviewing usage trends and anticipated kitchen demand. Follow purchasing procedures and applicable food safety, traceability, and documentation requirements. Perform other sourcing and procurement duties as assigned. Qualifications and Requirements Previous experience in food sourcing, purchasing, procurement, supply chain operations, or hospitality is preferred. Knowledge of food products, specialty ingredients, or restaurant supply operations is an advantage. Strong research, analytical, and organizational skills. Ability to compare supplier pricing, specifications, and product quality. Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities. Proficiency with email, spreadsheets, and standard business documentation. Strong attention to detail and accurate recordkeeping habits. Ability to manage multiple sourcing requests and meet deadlines. Practical problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to supplier coordination. Understanding of food quality, storage requirements, and ingredient traceability is beneficial. Preferred Skills Familiarity with Italian culinary ingredients and specialty food suppliers. Experience sourcing fresh produce, dairy products, dry goods, and imported ingredients. Ability to research seasonal products and alternative suppliers. Basic understanding of food cost control and purchasing budgets. Supplier negotiation and quotation analysis skills. Experience maintaining vendor databases and product specification records. Ability to collaborate effectively with culinary and operations teams. Work Environment The Italian Ingredient Sourcing Specialist will work in a restaurant operations environment, balancing administrative research with communication among suppliers, kitchen staff, and management. The role may involve occasional visits to suppliers, markets, or storage facilities, depending on business needs. Organization, accurate documentation, and timely follow-up are essential to maintaining a dependable ingredi…

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