Head of Procurement

Client: $100mm Division of $20B (International Food Company)

Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid)...close to train station

Title: Head of Procurement

Pay: $80 - $100 per hour

Duration: 6+ months

Contract to Hire Optional: Yes

Overview

The Head of Procurement is a key strategic leader responsible for sourcing ingredients, packaging, and materials needed to support large-scale food production and distribution. This role develops procurement strategies, manages supplier partnerships, ensures regulatory compliance, and drives cost savings and operational efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Build and execute procurement strategies that ensure timely and cost-effective acquisition of raw materials and packaging
• Negotiate contracts, manage supplier relationships, and evaluate vendor performance
• Monitor market trends to uncover savings opportunities and improvement initiatives
• Conduct risk assessments and establish contingency plans for supply chain disruptions
• Prepare and manage procurement budgets, forecasts, reporting, and long-term planning
• Ensure all purchasing activities adhere to food safety standards, regulatory requirements, and internal specifications
• Partner with Quality and R&D teams to maintain accurate ingredient and packaging requirements
• Lead sustainability-focused procurement efforts aligned with company goals

Experience

• 10+ years of progressive procurement experience, ideally within food manufacturing or consumer packaged goods
• Demonstrated success in vendor management, contract negotiation, and sourcing strategy
• Experience with food safety regulations
• Prior leadership experience overseeing procurement initiatives at a senior or director level

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, Food Science, or related field required
• MBA or advanced degree preferred