Director of Procurement - Sterling Engineering : Job Details

Director of Procurement – (Must come from Food Manufacturing)

Salary: $160k - $175k

Bonus: 15%-25%

LocationBolingbrook, IL

Position Overview

We're seeking a strategic, results-driven Director of Procurement to lead sourcing, purchasing, and supplier partnerships for all key ingredients and packaging in frozen food production. From savory proteins and cheeses to sauces, vegetables, and packaging, this role is at the heart of ensuring quality, cost efficiency, and supply reliability. This is a high-impact leadership position that will shape procurement strategy, drive innovation, and fuel growth.

What You'll Do

• Take charge of sourcing all direct materials, including proteins, dairy, wheat and crusts, vegetables, sauces, toppings, and packaging.
• Develop and execute data-driven sourcing strategies that optimize spend without compromising quality or service. Monitor commodity trends and proactively pivot to stay ahead of market shifts.
• Build and nurture strong supplier relationships, conducting performance reviews, driving accountability, and ensuring compliance with the highest standards in food safety, quality, and service.
• Anticipate challenges in pricing, supply chain disruptions, and regulatory compliance. Create resilient contingency plans and multi-supplier strategies to keep production moving.
• Partner with Operations, R&D, Quality, Finance, and Commercial functions to enable innovation, support new product launches, and deliver on customer commitments.
• Lead and mentor a skilled procurement team. Foster a culture of excellence, agility, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Food Science, or related field (MBA or CPSM preferred).
• 10+ years of progressive procurement experience in food manufacturing, with at least 3–5 years in a leadership role.