Company: Food Production / CPG Industry
Position: Interim Head of Procurement (Pay Rate: $70/hour – $100/hour)
Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid)
Position Overview
The Head of Procurement is a strategic leader responsible for overseeing the procurement of ingredients and packaging necessary for food production. This executive role will develop and implement procurement strategies, manage supplier relationships, ensure compliance with food safety standards, and optimize business value while maintaining quality. Reporting to the CFO, this position will collaborate closely with operations, finance, quality assurance, and logistics to ensure a seamless supply chain.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Supply Chain Optimization
- Develop and implement procurement strategies to ensure the timely and cost- effective acquisition of ingredients and supplies
- Manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and evaluate supplier performance
- Monitor market trends and identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements
- Conduct risk assessments and develop contingency plans to mitigate supply chain disruptions
- Prepare and manage procurement budgets, forecasts, and reports
Compliance & Quality Management
- Ensure compliance with food safety standards and regulations
- Partner with quality assurance to maintain ingredient and packaging specifications
- Implement sustainable procurement practices aligned with company values
- Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes and systems
Cross-Functional Leadership
- Collaborate with production, quality assurance, and logistics teams to ensure a seamless supply chain
- Present strategic insights and recommendations to executive leadership
- Serve as the company’s subject matter expert on procurement and supplier management
- Coordinate with finance on cost projections and budget planning
Team Leadership
- Lead and mentor the procurement team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement
- Establish clear performance metrics and drive accountability
- Ensure team members have the tools, training, and resources needed to excel
- Create a culture of analytical excellence and professional development
Qualifications
Experience
- 7+ years of progressive experience in procurement, preferably within the food industry
- Proven track record of leading successful procurement initiatives and supplier management
- Strong understanding of food safety standards and regulations
- Experience managing complex procurement projects and negotiations
- Prior director-level experience preferred
Skills & Abilities
- Strategic vision with ability to translate market intelligence into executable procurement strategies
- Advanced negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Exceptional leadership skills with demonstrated ability to influence across organizational levels
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Proficiency in procurement software and tools
- Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams
Education
- MBA or related advanced degree strongly preferred
- Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, or related field required
Working Conditions
- Hybrid work arrangement based in Chicago office (3 days in office)
- Approximately 20% travel required to visit suppliers, manufacturing sites, and key business locations
For immediate consideration, please email your resume in Word format to Cameron at cameronwall@ofgus.com.