Indirect Strategic Sourcing Specialist

Lactalis American Group; Illinois; Hybrid; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the dairy sector is seeking a Strategic Sourcing Specialist for their Procurement team in Chicago. The ideal candidate will manage indirect categories, negotiate with suppliers, and collaborate with various internal teams to optimize procurement initiatives. Successful applicants will possess a Bachelor's degree and relevant purchasing experience, ensuring adherence to compliance and reporting standards.

Benefits

Commitment to a safe and healthy work environment

Physical presence in the office required per Hybrid Work Policy

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years in purchasing, preferably in indirect categories.
• Experience in CPG industry preferred.
• Knowledge of Laboratory Supplies purchasing is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate sourcing initiatives and develop category strategies.
• Negotiate with suppliers and lead business reviews.
• Report monthly on savings, value analysis, and negotiations.

Skills

Project Management

Negotiation

Presentation

Data-driven Analytical Capabilities

Bilingual (French and English)

Education

Bachelor's degree in business or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

SAP/PRISM

Job description

Description

Lactalis USA is seeking candidates to join our Procurement team in Chicago, IL.

About Lactalis

Lactalis, a global leader in dairy, is a family-owned business with over 85,000 professionals worldwide. We are committed to providing healthy and delicious dairy products that unite people daily. Our brands include Galbani, Président, Kraft Natural Cheese, Cracker Barrel, Black Diamond, Parmalat, Siggi’s, and Stonyfield Organic, among others imported from Europe.

Our core values are AMBITION, ENGAGEMENT, and SIMPLICITY. We strive to create a safe, diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace. We encourage candidates from various backgrounds to apply, sharing their STORY, PASSION, and EXPERTISE.

Lactalis is an equal opportunity employer, respecting all legally protected classes.

Position Overview

The Strategic Sourcing Specialist, Indirect manages a portfolio of indirect categories and projects. They will build collaborative relationships with senior leaders to align strategies, develop sourcing plans, and drive procurement initiatives, including establishing long-term agreements to optimize quality, service, and cost.

Key Responsibilities

• Facilitate sourcing initiatives, develop category strategies, negotiate with suppliers, and lead business reviews.
• Collaborate with internal teams including Programs, regional offices, Marketing, Finance, HR, IT, and Legal.
• Ensure compliance with purchasing procedures and communicate policy changes.
• Report monthly on savings, value analysis, and negotiations.
• Implement annual savings programs and contribute to budgeting processes.
• Source and qualify suppliers, including conducting site visits and evaluations.
• Maintain detailed supplier information for evaluations and proposals.
• Analyze market conditions and prepare reports with recommendations.
• Continuously assess suppliers to ensure competitive pricing and quality.
• Manage nonproductive resources and update systems like SAP/PRISM.
• Serve as the point of contact for North American purchasing requests and new product developments.
• Travel up to 25% and work extended hours as needed.

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in business or related field.
• Minimum 2 years in purchasing, preferably in indirect categories.
• Experience in CPG industry preferred.

Knowledge & Skills:

• Knowledge of Laboratory Supplies purchasing is a plus.
• Experience in industrial or supply chain purchasing preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Strong project management, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Data-driven analytical capabilities.
• Ability to present to leadership and small groups.
• Bilingual in French and English is an asset.
• Team-oriented with leadership and motivational skills.
• Adaptability in a changing environment.

Additional Information

• Physical presence in the office is required per Hybrid Work Policy.
• Commitment to a safe and healthy work environment.