Indirect Strategic Sourcing Specialist

Lactalis American Group; Illinois; On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Lactalis USA is seeking a Strategic Sourcing Specialist to manage indirect procurement projects in Chicago, IL. This role involves developing strong supplier relationships, driving procurement initiatives, and ensuring cost efficiency. Ideal candidates will have a business degree and at least 2 years of relevant experience, ideally in the CPG industry.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business or related field is required.
• Minimum 2 years in indirect purchasing required, preferably in CPG.
• Experience in laboratory supplies purchasing is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of indirect categories and projects.
• Develop category strategies and negotiate with suppliers.
• Ensure compliance with purchasing procedures.

Skills

Negotiation

Data Analysis

Project Management

Presentation Skills

Leadership

Microsoft Office

Bilingual in French/English

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business or related field

Tools

SAP/PRISM

Job description

Description

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

Lactalis, the world leader in dairy, is a family-owned business with more than 85,000 professionals worldwide, committed to nurturing the future by providing healthy and delicious dairy products. Our award-winning brands include Galbani, Président, Kraft Natural Cheese, Cracker Barrel, Black Diamond, Parmalat, Siggi’s, and Stonyfield Organic, along with several imported European brands.

Our core values of AMBITION, ENGAGEMENT, and SIMPLICITY guide us. We are dedicated to fostering a safe, diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply, sharing their STORY, PASSION, and EXPERTISE—you might be the perfect fit for this or other roles.

Lactalis is an equal employment opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on veteran status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or disabilities.

Requirements

The Strategic Sourcing Specialist, Indirect, manages a portfolio of indirect categories and projects. Responsibilities include establishing collaborative relationships with senior leaders, developing category strategies, driving procurement initiatives, and establishing long-term agreements to optimize quality, service, and price. Categories include Marketing Services, IT, Telecommunications, Consulting, Financial Services, Human Resources, Travel, Fleet, and others.

Key Responsibilities

• Facilitate sourcing initiatives, develop category strategies, negotiate with suppliers, and lead business reviews.
• Build relationships 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 budget planning.
• Source and qualify suppliers, including site visits and evaluations.
• Maintain detailed supplier information and conduct market analysis for procurement decisions.
• Continuously evaluate suppliers for competitive pricing, quality, and service.
• Maintain nonproductive resources and update procurement systems like SAP/PRISM.
• Coordinate with North American purchasing and support new product development.
• 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 indirect purchasing; CPG industry experience preferred.

Knowledge: Laboratory supplies purchasing experience is a plus; industrial/supply chain experience preferred.

Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office, project management, negotiation, presentation, data analysis, and leadership skills. Bilingual in French/English is an asset. Strong team motivation and adaptability are required.