Category Specialist

LaSalle Network is seeking a Category Specialist to join a leading global organization in the food industry. This role will focus on strategic procurement initiatives, including driving cost savings, managing supplier relationships, and leading key projects related to global raw material sourcing. The ideal candidate will have strong negotiation skills.

This position is on-site in the western suburbs of Chicago with a hybrid schedule.

Category Specialist Responsibilities:

• Lead strategic procurement initiatives to drive cost savings and improve supplier partnerships
• Manage supplier relationships and oversee contract negotiations
• Analyze global raw material sourcing trends to optimize procurement strategies
• Collaborate with internal teams to align procurement efforts with business objectives
• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks, particularly in response to tariffs and market fluctuations
  
  

Category Specialist Requirements:

• 2 years of experience in procurement, supply chain or category management
• Strong negotiation skills with experience handling supplier agreements and contract management
• Ability to manage global sourcing strategies and drive cost-saving initiatives
• Proficiency in SAP or JDA is preferred
• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or a related field preferred
  
  

If you're an experienced procurement professional looking for an opportunity to lead strategic initiatives in a global organization, we’d love to hear from you! Apply today.

Thank you,

Sarah Carpenter

Project Manager

LaSalle Network