Buyer II

We are seeking an experienced Buyer II to support sourcing and procurement operations for raw materials used in manufacturing across the US and Canada. This role will be responsible for executing sourcing plans, managing supplier relationships, conducting RFPs, negotiating contracts, and identifying cost-saving opportunities while ensuring quality and service level standards are met. The Buyer II will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including the Corporate Innovation Center and Production Planners, to identify alternative materials and optimize supply chain efficiency. The ideal candidate is curious, collaborative, and proactive, with a strong ability to analyze data, conduct research, and adapt to challenges.

Buyer II Responsibilities:

• Manage sourcing for 15-20 commodity categories, totaling approximately $50M in annual spend
• Act as the primary relationship manager for 30-40 suppliers, monitoring contract performance and ensuring timely deliveries
• Develop RFPs, negotiate pricing and contracts, and drive cost reduction initiatives while maintaining quality standards
• Work with the Corporate Innovation Center & Plants to identify alternative raw materials and support production continuity
• Address supplier performance concerns and coordinate directly with Production Planners to resolve supply chain disruptions
• Utilize Oracle ERP (preferred) and Excel (Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP) to analyze procurement data, improve efficiency, and optimize sourcing strategies
• Ensure procurement decisions align with company goals, industry trends, and compliance standards

Buyer II Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related field (preferred but not required)
• 3 years of procurement, supply chain, sourcing, or project management experience in manufacturing (required); packaging experience is a plus
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
• Excellent communication and presentation skills-ability to engage with various stakeholders
• Curiosity and research skills-proactive in finding solutions beyond immediate answers
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and collaborate effectively across teams
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word); experience with Oracle ERP is a plus
• Understanding of market trends, supplier negotiations, and cost reduction strategies
• Comfortable investigating complex procurement issues
• Able to engage with multiple teams and adjust to changing priorities
• Takes initiative and proactively seeks solutions
• Comfortable leading discussions and sharing insights with stakeholders

Buyer II Additional Details:

• Hybrid schedule - 2 days per week in the Chicago office (Wednesday required)
• Initial contract duration: 1-2 years

This is an exciting opportunity for a proactive and analytical procurement professional to contribute to a growing sourcing team within a dynamic manufacturing environment. If you are looking for a long-term role with potential for growth, we encourage you to apply!

Thanks,

Missy Stella
Senior Unit Manager
LaSalle Network

LaSalle Network is an Equal Opportunity Employer m/f/d/v.

LaSalle Network is the leading provider of direct hire and temporary staffing services. For over two decades, LaSalle has helped organizations hire faster and connect top talent with opportunities, from entry-level positions to the C-suite. With units specializing in Accounting and Finance, Administrative, Marketing, Technology, Supply chain, Healthcare Revenue Cycle, Call Center, Human Resources and Executive Search. LaSalle offers staffing and recruiting solutions to companies of all sizes and across all industries.

LaSalle Network is the premier staffing and recruiting firm, earning over 100 culture, revenue and industry-based awards from major publications and having its company experts regularly contribute insights on retention strategies, hiring trends and hiring challenges, and more to national news outlets. LaSalle Network offers temporary Field Employees benefit plans including medical, dental and vision coverage. Family Medical Leave, Worker's compensation, Paid Leave and Sick Leave are also provided. View a full list of our benefits here: https://www.thelasallenetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Field-Employee-Benefits-LaSalle-Network.pdf