Director, Capital Assets & MRO

Maker's Pride Talent Acquisition Team • Downers Grove, IL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Are you a visionary procurement leader ready to make a bold impact? We’re looking for a Director of Capital Procurement to lead our capital and MRO sourcing strategy—managing over $120M in annual spend across plant assets, repairs, and maintenance. Based at our headquarters in Downers Grove, IL, this role is pivotal in shaping procurement decisions that fuel operational success and long-term growth. You’ll be the driving force behind sourcing strategies, supplier partnerships, and cross-functional collaboration with Engineering, Finance, Operations, and Plant Leadership. We’re seeking someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, brings deep expertise in capital procurement, and inspires high-performing teams to deliver results.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree (Master’s degree or MBA preferred) in Business, Procurement, Supply Chain, Engineering, or Accounting preferred or equivalent combination of education, training, certifications and experience.
• 12+ years in procurement/strategic sourcing role, including 5+ years in a leadership with increasing responsibilities and leadership experience, including capital assets and MRO categories.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and prior experience with SAP, BW and Spend Analytics Solutions preferred.
• Proven ability to think strategically and execute with precision, backed by strong organizational, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience in managing internal stakeholders across functions, ensuring alignment and driving impactful commercial decisions.
• Experienced in leading complex projects with cross-functional teams, delivering results on time and within budget.
• Adept at quickly gathering and interpreting data and business requirements in fast-paced, evolving environments.
• Deep understanding of contract fundamentals with a strong ability to negotiate favorable terms that support business outcomes.
• Broad knowledge of negotiation strategies, macroeconomics, inventory control, and manufacturing processes.
• Demonstrated success in negotiating with suppliers to achieve quality improvements and cost savings.
• Skilled at identifying inefficiencies and implementing process improvements that enhance procurement performance.
• Comfortable and effective in engaging with senior leadership and external partners to influence decisions and drive strategic initiatives.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree or MBA preferred
• prior experience with SAP, BW and Spend Analytics Solutions preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic sourcing for capital equipment and MRO purchases, optimizing total cost of ownership, ensuring supply continuity, and aligning with long-term operational goals.
• Partner cross-functionally with Engineering and Finance to forecast capital needs, assess investment trade-offs, and unlock value through supplier innovation, standardization, and commercial negotiations.
• Stay ahead of market trends by monitoring global cost drivers and leveraging industry data to inform sourcing strategies and deliver actionable insights to internal stakeholders.
• Build and manage supplier relationships, identifying alternative sources (e.g., auctions, online marketplaces) and driving performance through KPIs, scorecards, business reviews, and effective contract management.
• Standardize procurement processes and specifications across sites to drive consistency, efficiency, and scalability.
• Develop and lead a high-performing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement through coaching, mentoring, and professional development.
• Establish clear KPIs and performance expectations for procurement staff, ensuring accountability and alignment with departmental goals.
• Collaborate with the Chief Procurement Officer to guide and mentor the broader procurement organization, supporting strategic initiatives and talent development.

Benefits

• We offer a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, 401k and wellness benefits beginning on the first day of employment.
• The position is eligible for a discretionary annual incentive based on company and individual performance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director