Procurement Manager - Sterling Engineering : Job Details

Indirect Procurement Manager

Location: Chicago, IL

Pay Range: $100K-$130K plus 10-15% bonus

Travel Requirements: Up to 30%

Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO, 401K

We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Indirect Procurement Manager to join our dynamic Supply Chain team. This position is responsible for leading sourcing initiatives and managing procurement activities across multiple indirect categories with a strong focus on facilities and services. The ideal candidate will bring deep procurement expertise, strong analytical and negotiation skills, and the ability to influence stakeholders across all levels of the organization.

• 5+ years of experience of indirect procurement experience within food, beverage or chemical industries
• Understanding processing & packaging and water & wastewater treatment.
• Experience managing all aspects of the RFP process including bid development, vendor evaluation, and contract negotiation.
• Aseptic and Piping knowledge is a plus

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead strategic sourcing activities for indirect spend, with a primary focus on facilities management, chemicals, pallets, and co-manufacturing.
• Develop and implement category strategies that drive cost savings, supplier performance, and risk mitigation.
• Analyze spend and build a productivity pipeline aligned with business objectives.
• Own category strategy development and execution for key indirect spend areas, including water treatment, processing & packaging chemicals, and wastewater treatment.
• Manage all aspects of the RFP process including bid development, vendor evaluation, and contract negotiation.
• Collaborate with transportation and warehousing teams on supplier selection and service agreements.
• Oversee vendor relationships—ensuring compliance, tracking performance metrics, and resolving issues.
• Partner with legal to draft and finalize service agreements and develop preferential contract terms.
• Monitor market trends and inflation to forecast spend and support budget planning.
• Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes and identify cost-reduction opportunities.
• Track and report on savings, KPIs, and supplier performance across assigned categories.
• Act as a strategic business partner across internal operations, manufacturing, and corporate functions.
• Contribute to cross-functional initiatives, operational excellence, and special projects as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Procurement, Engineering, or Finance.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in indirect procurement, ideally with a focus on facilities or industrial categories.
• Demonstrated success in leading RFPs, vendor negotiations, and contract lifecycle management.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and influencing skills.
• Background in a CPG or manufacturing environment preferred.
• Strong project management abilities and analytical mindset.
• Comfortable working independently in a fast-paced, agile environment.
• Ability to build trust and navigate complex stakeholder landscapes across multiple sites and levels.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.