Senior Category Specialist

Welcome to Whataburger Careers! Our Flavor — Why Whataburger Whataburger isn’t just a fast-food burger chain it is where bold leadership starts — and where potential doesn’t just grow, it heats up. Whether you're leading the line or working behind the scenes, this is the place where opportunities stack up, and every day gives you a chance to Make a Difference. Since 1950, we’ve invested in people who lead with integrity, Serve with Heart , and bring their best flavor to the team. We believe in working together, speaking up, having a little fun, and Winning as One — because great burgers (and great teams) start with the right ingredients. If you're ready — to learn, grow, impact, and Move Forward Boldly — we’ve got your back and your path cooked to perfection. Your Recipe For Impact — What You’ll Do As a Senior Category Specialist, you'll help shape the sourcing strategies and supplier partnerships that support our business and restaurants. By leading complex sourcing initiatives, driving cost optimization, and partnering with stakeholders across the organization, you'll play a key role in delivering value while ensuring quality, service, and long-term business success. In this role, you'll Make a Difference by identifying opportunities that improve cost efficiency and strengthen supplier performance. You'll Serve with Heart by building trusted partnerships and supporting the needs of internal customers and restaurant operations. You'll Win as One by collaborating across functions to align sourcing decisions with business priorities. And you'll Move Forward Boldly by leveraging data, market insights, and strategic thinking to drive innovative solutions and sustainable results. Day-to-Day Ingredients — Responsibilities As a Senior Category Specialist, you will: Lead complex sourcing initiatives across assigned categories. Develop and execute category sourcing strategies. Negotiate supplier agreements, pricing, and commercial terms. Conduct spend analysis and long-term cost forecasting. Build business cases that drive cost savings and value creation. Evaluate supplier capabilities, performance, and market opportunities. Identify supply chain risks and implement mitigation strategies. Partner with cross-functional teams to support business objectives. Influence sourcing decisions through data-driven recommendations. Mentor and support the development of sourcing team members. Plan and manage sourcing initiatives with a long-term perspective. Perform other duties as assigned. The Sauce — Pay & Perks As a Senior Category Specialist, You Will Receive Competitive Weekly Pay Bonus Program 5 weeks of PTO Starting on Day One Flex Weeks Paid Corporate Holidays Paid Parental Leave 401(k) match $1/$1 up to 4% Competitive Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits Short-term and Long-term Disability Benefits Opportunities for Career Development and Growth Whataburger Family Foundation - Scholarship Program (dependents also eligible) and Hardship Grant Assistance Discounted Meals for You and a Guest Cell Phone Service Discounts Computer & Software Discounts Fitness / Gym Discounts Awards and recognition for all you do Retirement Celebration Program What You Bring To The Table — Required Experience As a Senior Category Specialist, you must have: Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience. 4+ years of experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, supply chain, or a related field. Experience leading sourcing projects and supplier negotiations. Experience analyzing spend, costs, and business performance data. Knowledge of category management and sourcing strategy development. Ability to manage multiple priorities and complex initiatives. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Strong stakeholder management and communication skills. Ability to influence outcomes across cross-functional teams. Ability to adapt to and learn the technology platforms, systems, applications, and equipment used in the role. Extra Toppings — Desir…

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