Procurement Lead

Procurement LeadLocation: Skokie, IL (Hybrid – primarily onsite)Travel: ModerateBenefitsMedical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) optionsWeekly pay through BrilliantSalary: DOEAbout UsBrilliant is an award-winning contract and consulting practice headquartered in Chicago, specializing in accounting, finance, technology, and business solutions across the Midwest and Southeast U.S. labor markets.About the OpportunityA growing, privately held manufacturing organization in the Skokie area is seeking an experienced Procurement Lead to help build and scale its sourcing and supplier management capabilities. The company operates within the industrial and chemical manufacturing space, supporting a diverse customer base with high-quality products and a strong operational footprint.This is a high-impact role reporting directly to the VP of Operations, offering the opportunity to shape procurement strategy, implement best practices, and influence key business decisions in a rapidly evolving environment.Position OverviewThe Procurement Lead will be responsible for developing and managing supplier relationships, overseeing sourcing activities across raw materials, CapEx, and MRO, and establishing procurement processes that support operational growth and efficiency.This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a hands-on environment and enjoys building structure within a growing organization.Key ResponsibilitiesLead end-to-end procurement activities across raw materials, capital equipment (CapEx), and maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO)Develop and execute sourcing strategies aligned with production and business goalsEstablish and manage supplier onboarding, qualification, and performance evaluation processesNegotiate contracts, pricing, and terms to optimize cost, quality, and delivery reliabilityBuild and maintain strong, long-term vendor partnershipsCollaborate cross-functionally with operations, engineering, finance, and leadership teams to forecast demand and align purchasing plansImplement procurement policies, procedures, and controls to improve efficiency and complianceAnalyze market trends, supply risks, and cost drivers to inform sourcing decisionsDrive continuous improvement initiatives across the procurement functionSupport ERP system utilization and optimization (SAP or similar platforms)Qualifications6–10+ years of procurement, sourcing, or supply chain experienceStrong negotiation and vendor management skillsExperience supporting manufacturing or industrial environments (chemical industry experience highly preferred)Ability to evaluate technical requirements beyond cost considerationsERP experience required (SAP or SAP Business One preferred)Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field preferredWhat They're Looking ForA strategic thinker who can also execute tacticallySomeone comfortable building processes from the ground upStrong communicator with the ability to influence stakeholders across functionsExperience working in fast-paced, growth-oriented environmentsBrilliant Staffing, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status.