Procurement Director - Manufacturing Job at CEO Inc in Norridge

This role will lead all procurement functions and strategy including direct/indirect reports.  The individual should be hands-on and have operations knowledge of inventory management, production planning, and demand/supply forecasting. Additionally, the role entails tactical oversight of developing and implementing policies, procedures, and systems that facilitate the acquisition of raw materials with a focus on achieving cost savings and driving strategic initiatives. The candidate will spearhead major projects and collaborate across departments to enhance supply chain improvement.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee the procurement of raw materials, packaging, and related inventories to fulfill customer demand while managing costs.
• Align demand with supply, meeting targets for cost, schedule, quality, and performance.
• Negotiate and finalize beneficial contracts, ensuring alternative vendors for essential materials.
• Address supply challenges by clearly identifying issues, assessing critical levels, and proposing solutions to ensure compliance with customer requirements.
• Hold suppliers accountable for their performance while nurturing important relationships.
• Leverage customer insights, market trends, purchasing behaviors, sales data, and competitive analysis to collaborate with other departments.
• Regularly analyze and review supplier options and pricing to manage costs effectively.
• Evaluate supplier capabilities to qualify new sources and assist in resolving production, design, quality, or delivery issues.
• Support new business projects by engaging suppliers to clarify cost and design implications.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to facilitate the commercialization of new products.
• Conduct cost analysis and establish benchmarks for improvements in pricing, freight, service, reliability, and quality.
• Develop and implement a hedging strategy to mitigate risks related to commodities.
• Oversee aging inventory management, proactively communicate about idle materials, and escalate risks. Assist the warehouse team with cycle counts and inventory assessments.
• Lead projects focused on technology and process improvements to enhance procurement efficiency and effectiveness.

Qualifications:

• Four-year educational degree.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in procurement/commodities.
• Experience in food manufacturing.
• Supply planning and inventory management experience.
• Excellent analytical and computer skills, including experience with ERP systems and proficiency in Microsoft Office.