Strategic Buyer

Prater Industries • Bolingbrook, IL

4d • Hybrid

About The Position

Are you a master negotiator with a passion for building resilient supply chains? We are looking for a Strategic Buyer who doesn't just "place orders" but builds partnerships. In this role, you will be the architect of our sourcing strategy, balancing cost-efficiency with high-quality standards to keep our operations running at peak performance.
If you thrive on market analysis, value creation, and navigating complex supplier landscapes, we want to hear from you.
How You'll Make an Impact
Strategy & Sourcing: Develop and execute innovative sourcing plans that align with our long-term business goals.
Partnership Management: Identify and cultivate a world-class supplier network. You won't just find vendors; you'll build relationships based on reliability and mutual growth.
Negotiation Excellence: Lead contract and pricing negotiations to unlock value, improve terms, and drive significant cost savings.
Risk Mitigation: Stay ahead of the curve by monitoring market trends and competitor moves to proactively address supply chain risks.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Finance, Product Development, and Operations to ensure our procurement strategy fuels every part of the company.
Continuous Improvement: Review supplier performance and internal processes to find "the better way"-driving efficiency and ethical sourcing at every turn.
What You Bring to the Table
Experience: 5–7 years of proven success in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain management.
Education: A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or a related field. (Bonus points if you have CPSM or CIPS certifications!)
Tech Savvy: Proficiency with ERP systems and procurement software is second nature to you.
The "Buyer" Mindset: You possess sharp analytical skills and a knack for solving problems before they hit the bottom line.
Interpersonal Flair: You are a professional communicator who can influence stakeholders and maintain a positive, "team-first" attitude.
Independence: You're a self-starter who can manage multiple high-stakes projects without breaking a sweat.
The Nitty-Gritty (Work Environment)
The Setting: Primarily a modern office environment with the flexibility for occasional travel to visit suppliers or attend industry events. Hybrid eligible after 90 days.
Physicals: You should be comfortable with extended periods of keyboard work and phone communication. Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds.
Why Join Us?
We value a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and those who live by strong values. This isn't just a desk job; it's an opportunity to influence the operational DNA of our company.
Ready to build something great? Apply today!

Requirements

• 5–7 years of proven success in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain management.
• A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or a related field.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and procurement software is second nature to you.
• You possess sharp analytical skills and a knack for solving problems before they hit the bottom line.
• You are a professional communicator who can influence stakeholders and maintain a positive, "team-first" attitude.
• You're a self-starter who can manage multiple high-stakes projects without breaking a sweat.

Nice To Haves

• CPSM or CIPS certifications

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute innovative sourcing plans that align with our long-term business goals.
• Identify and cultivate a world-class supplier network.
• Lead contract and pricing negotiations to unlock value, improve terms, and drive significant cost savings.
• Stay ahead of the curve by monitoring market trends and competitor moves to proactively address supply chain risks.
• Partner with Finance, Product Development, and Operations to ensure our procurement strategy fuels every part of the company.
• Review supplier performance and internal processes to find "the better way"-driving efficiency and ethical sourcing at every turn.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees