209 Procurement Specialist jobs in Des Plaines

Leading proprietary trading firm is looking for a Procurement Specialist to help optimize the firms technology business strategy while enhancing operational excellence and driving continuous improvement efforts across the firm.

You will drive a wide variety of cost optimization projects, all while partnering with trading, accounting, development, and operations teams. If you are interested in utilizing and furthering your experience towards making a significant impact in both the business and technical sides of a proprietary trading firm while leveraging your procurement expertise, this role will provide that opportunity!

Responsibilities

1. Strategic Sourcing/Purchasing Manage purchasing process workflow to ensure the right allocation methodology, while partnering with trading, development, and IT to understand upcoming requirements and business needs. Solicit best pricing and terms from vendors - including working with internal stakeholders to design scopes and understand potential costs/savings.
2. Asset Management Monitor and ensure consistent inventory of assets while working with the service manager to build the right charge-back models with CFO/accounting team.
3. Process Development Design and implement continuous updates to the procurement process in an effort to make the end-to-end process more efficient and mature. Find new opportunities to streamline and automate day-to-day processes.
4. Vendor Relationship Management Build long-term relationships with key suppliers, including exchanges, market data providers, and 3rd party technology service providers. Conduct regular vendor performance reviews to identify areas to improve service and transparency with the highest spend vendors.
5. Contract and Pricing Review & Negotiation Negotiate pricing on net-new contracts and renewals to ensure our firm continues to receive discounts competitive to the market.
6. Daily Procurement Operations Oversee day-to-day purchasing - working with A/P, Legal, technical teams, and vendors to purchase routine hardware, software, and services in a standardized fashion. Track renewals of recurring spend to facilitate timely contract review and execution. Lead proactive communication with internal stakeholders with updates on expected timelines and progress of purchase requests.

Requirements

1. 3-5 years of experience in procurement, operations, or finance; trading/industry knowledge a plus
2. A high aptitude for understanding the technical components we buy/rely on to support our trading and corporate infrastructure, along with high curiosity of how those purchasing decisions tie back to firm profitability
3. Strong communication, organizational, and analytical skills
4. Persistence required to relentlessly question issues at hand until you have identified the root problem
5. The ability to multitask and drive multiple projects simultaneously while operating in a fast-paced environment
6. Strong risk awareness and the ability to identify imminent risks to the business
7. Ability to identify and resolve operational inefficiencies not only in the procurement process, but in other tangential areas.
8. Proficiency with JIRA a plus
9. Basic programming and database experience a plus

Annual compensation range: $100 - 120K base + discretionary bonus

Seniority level: Mid-Senior level

Employment type: Full-time

Job function: Finance, Purchasing, and Supply Chain

Industries: Financial Services, Capital Markets, and Venture Capital and Private Equity Principals

The Procurement Specialist main job function plans, organizes, and coordinates the activities and operations of purchasing Raw Products, Dry Goods, Supplies, Condiments, Film, and any other miscellaneous goods, enters purchase orders into the AS 400 system and update as necessary; close out po's as they are received.

• Analyze inventory levels to determine optimal ordering quantities.
• Place orders directly with outside vendors and internally within the company for their timely delivery. Communicate relevant information with departments on a daily basis.
• Apply for and follow up on credit requests to ensure they have been granted on any non-conforming products or services.
• Ensure records, files, and reports are Sarbanes Oxley compliant within the purchasing guidelines.
• This position interfaces daily with the Materials Manager, National Raw Product, Scheduling, Shipping and Receiving, Production, Customer Service, Maintenance, and Transportation to ensure that department and company goals are continuously attained (order fill, safety, D&D, and cost reduction initiatives).
• Develop new process improvement procedures with cross functional teams.
• Manage supply chain projects with corporate mission critical initiatives, implement, sustain, control, and measure. Perform other duties as assigned.

• Purchasing knowledge of principles, practices, and techniques.
• Must possess demonstrated analytical abilities and be able to develop logical solutions to opportunities as they develop.
• Ability to maintain focus and direction in a fast-paced environment and have good problem-solving skills
• Must be a proven team player that utilizes coaching and company values to meet and exceed customer expectations.
• Microsoft Office, Excel, and MRP skills.
• Good communication skills: verbal and written.
• Must be available days, nights, and weekends.

Midwest Express Clinic is the "Best in the Midwest" when it comes to your helathcare needs. We provide a convenient alternative to an ER visit or doctor's appointment for illness and inuries that are urgent but not emergent. We are one of the fastest growing urgent care chains in the Midwest, with 50+ locations across the Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana markets since opening our doors in 2012.

The Operations & Inventory Associate plays a critical role in supporting day-to-day operations, vendor management, and inventory oversight across a dynamic and growing organization. This individual must be highly organized, adaptable, and capable of managing multiple priorities as operational needs evolve. The role includes project management, cross-functional collaboration, data analysis, and ongoing process optimization. This position reports to the Director of Operations and is located in the Chicagoland market, spending time on-site at the clinic locations and in our West Loop offices.

Core Responsibilities:

• Supply Ordering: Process and track clinic supply orders accurately and on time.
• Inventory Management: Maintain updated stock levels, perform routine counts, and flag low or excess inventory.
• Clinic Supply Audits: Support regular audits to ensure clinic compliance with supply standards and cleanliness.
• Refining Order Process: Help streamline ordering workflows, identify inefficiencies, and suggest process improvements.
• Vendor Support: Assist with vendor outreach, gather quotes, and support negotiations through data collection or analysis.
• Cost Analysis: Monitor pricing trends, track spend, and prepare basic cost-savings or benchmarking reports.

• Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree preferred (or equivalent experience).
  • 2+ years of relevant experience in operations, inventory, analytics, or vendor management.
  • Healthcare or multi-site operational experience strongly preferred.
• Skills & Tools
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel (pivot tables, charts, formulas).
  • Familiarity with inventory systems and business intelligence tools.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Project management capabilities with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Other Requirements
  • Must be self-motivated and capable of working independently.
  • Ability to travel regularly between clinic locations and the West Loop office.
  • Strong attention to detail, time management, and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

• A proactive self-starter who takes initiative.
• Comfortable navigating ambiguity and shifting responsibilities.
• Skilled at building and maintaining strong relationships with internal teams and external partners.

Who Are We?

UniUni is a Canadian last-mile e-commerce logistics that is one of the fastest growing companies in Canada. As a platform that seamlessly integrates advanced technology with efficient delivery solutions, UniUni enables businesses to provide a superior online shopping experience, ensuring unparalleled efficiency and customer satisfaction. Catering to a diverse range of clients-from emerging e-commerce platforms to established online retailers and brands-UniUni offers exceptional service across North America. Recognized as the fourth fastest-growing company in Canada, UniUni continues to set industry standards, offering a robust, customer-centric approach to e-commerce logistics.

What Do We Offer?

At UniUni, we offer exciting opportunities to our employees to achieve their career goals. We believe all roles should develop your skills, broaden your experience, and help you build a rewarding career. If you are ready to join UniUni's dynamic team, while working hard and having fun doing it, we invite you to apply online and let us know how you can be part of our success story.

Position Overview

The Procurement Specialist will be a key player in managing and optimizing relationships with vendors, particularly focusing on securing backhaul loads to improve network efficiency and reduce empty miles. This role requires strong negotiation skills, an analytical mindset, and the ability to develop and execute cost-effective procurement strategies. The ideal candidate will have established connections within the logistics and transportation industry, with experience managing contracts, optimizing routes, and enhancing vendor relationships.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

1. Vendor Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key vendors, ensuring the best rates and services for backhaul loads and local couriers.
• Negotiate contracts and ensure vendor performance meets company expectations.

• Conduct detailed cost analyses to identify areas for cost savings and improve profitability through more efficient procurement strategies.
• Continuously monitor the market for trends and pricing opportunities to reduce costs.

• Assist in planning and coordinating logistics operations to maximize load efficiency and reduce empty miles.
• Work closely with logistics teams to optimize backhaul processes and improve overall transportation efficiency.

• Oversee contract management, ensuring that contracts with vendors are favorable and comply with company standards.
• Collaborate with a carrier relations specialist to manage vendor contracts, ensuring favorable terms, renewals, and compliance.

• Identify potential risks in procurement and backhaul operations and develop strategies to mitigate these risks.
• Monitor vendor performance and manage any issues or disputes that arise during the contract lifecycle.

• Generate reports on logistics performance, including backhaul efficiency, cost analysis, and vendor performance.
• Present findings to key stakeholders and provide recommendations for improvement.

1. Experience

• At least 5-7 years of experience in procurement, with a strong focus on logistics and backhaul operations.
• Established network and active connections with carriers in the transportation or logistics industry.

• Strong negotiation skills with a proven track record of securing favorable terms with vendors.
• Analytical thinker, with the ability to develop cost-effective procurement strategies.
• Skilled in financial analysis, including completing financial reports, pricing proposals, and cost-benefit analysis.

• Experience managing contracts, including negotiating terms, managing disputes, and ensuring vendors meet contractual obligations.
• Proven ability to work with multiple stakeholders to ensure contract terms align with business needs and objectives.

• Experience working collaboratively with other teams (e.g., logistics, finance, operations) to drive procurement strategies and improve efficiency across departments.
• Ability to communicate the value of strategic sourcing and procurement to internal stakeholders and executives.

• Experience with key procurement and logistics software, including vendor management systems, financial tools, and data reporting platforms.

• Experience in the transportation and logistics industry, particularly in backhaul and route optimization.
• Familiarity with contract management systems and tools that facilitate vendor performance tracking.
• Strong presentation and reporting skills, with experience generating performance reviews for senior management.

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Training & Development
• Free Food & Snacks

Job DescriptionJob Description

Midwest Express Clinic is the "Best in the Midwest" when it comes to your helathcare needs. We provide a convenient alternative to an ER visit or doctor's appointment for illness and inuries that are urgent but not emergent. We are one of the fastest growing urgent care chains in the Midwest, with 50+ locations across the Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana markets since opening our doors in 2012.

The Operations & Inventory Associate plays a critical role in supporting day-to-day operations, vendor management, and inventory oversight across a dynamic and growing organization. This individual must be highly organized, adaptable, and capable of managing multiple priorities as operational needs evolve. The role includes project management, cross-functional collaboration, data analysis, and ongoing process optimization. This position reports to the Director of Operations and is located in the Chicagoland market, spending time on-site at the clinic locations and in our West Loop offices.

Core Responsibilities:

• Supply Ordering: Process and track clinic supply orders accurately and on time.
• Inventory Management: Maintain updated stock levels, perform routine counts, and flag low or excess inventory.
• Clinic Supply Audits: Support regular audits to ensure clinic compliance with supply standards and cleanliness.
• Refining Order Process: Help streamline ordering workflows, identify inefficiencies, and suggest process improvements.
• Vendor Support: Assist with vendor outreach, gather quotes, and support negotiations through data collection or analysis.
• Cost Analysis: Monitor pricing trends, track spend, and prepare basic cost-savings or benchmarking reports.

Qualifications:

• Education & Experience
  • Bachelors degree (or equivalent experience).
  • 2+ years of relevant experience in operations, inventory, analytics, or vendor management.
  • Healthcare or multi-site operational experience strongly .
• Skills & Tools
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel (pivot tables, charts, formulas).
  • Familiarity with inventory systems and business intelligence tools.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Project management capabilities with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Other Requirements
  • Must be self-motivated and capable of working independently.
  • Ability to travel regularly between clinic locations and the West Loop office.
  • Strong attention to detail, time management, and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

Ideal Candidate Traits:

• A proactive self-starter who takes initiative.
• Comfortable navigating ambiguity and shifting responsibilities.
• Skilled at building and maintaining strong relationships with internal teams and external partners.

This position has an expected salary range of $75,000 - $85,000

Benefits: Midwest Express Clinic is proud to offer our employees a competitive selection of employer sponsored medical, dental, vision, and short term plans that meet the diverse needs of our employees and their families. Employees can also opt into a wide range of voluntary benefit plans including, but not limited to pre-tax spending accounts (FSA, HSA, Dependent Care, and Commuter), life insurance, critical illness, and even pet insurance. We offer a company-sponsored 401K plan, with employer match, to help them plan for a financially secure future. We also believe in the importance of work-life balance, with all full-time employees eligible for Wellness or Paid Time Off benefits.

Powered by JazzHR

3VcaWIguIK

• This position requires knowledge of supplier onboarding, system integration, market analysis, TCO usage, RFQ/RFI capability.
• Owns strategic sourcing process in supplier selection, management of supplier service level agreements and contract review and negotiations for assigned commodities.
• This position is the relationship manager in collaboration with the appropriate internal client for all external supplier relationships for assigned commodities.
• This includes maximizing supplier relationships, managing supplier expectations and building supplier relationships.
• Recognized as an industry and product expert in the assigned commodities.
• This includes keeping up to date on new products and materials and managing the introduction of said items in an economically advantageous way for UL.
• Maintain, re-evaluate, and expand reliable sources of supply and secondary sources as alternates in order to promote appropriate competition.
• Leverage and collaborate with internal UL clients to maximize cost, delivery and quality value to UL.

• University Degree (Equivalent to a U.S. Bachelors' degree) in Business Administration or a related field.
• 2 years of procurement experience.
• Proficiency in Excel, specifically with analyzing spend data/market analysis.
• Oracle ERP system experience preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to lead high value medium complexity sourcing teams.
• Detailed knowledge of Sourcing and Supplier Management.
• Detailed knowledge of purchasing principles.
• Detailed knowledge of negotiating techniques and principles.
• Detailed knowledge of business and contract law.

• Shift: Full Time, Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm
• Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K Match, PTO, Education Reimbursement
• Salary: $55,885 - 69,856 plus annual target bonus

• Optimize cost-effective procurement practices as a Procurement Specialist by operationalizing contracts, identifying cost savings, managing quotations, and leading process improvements in the Procure to Pay (PTP) process
• Analyze procurement data and metrics to identify trends, cost-saving opportunities, and areas for process optimization
• Monitor KPI performance and present innovative solutions based on trend analysis for requestors
• Review and analyze contractual terms from Sourcing teams to operationalize in the PTP system via Ariba contracts
• Maintain the Ariba contract database with up-to-date information on contracts, commercial terms, pricing, and discounts
• Partner with internal and external stakeholders to drive improved Procure to Pay (PTP) process performance and enhance collaboration
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, monitor their performance, and conduct quarterly business reviews
• Other duties as assigned

• Bachelor's Degree and 0 to 1 plus years of related experience in a high-volume transaction setting in Procurement, Supply Chain, and/or Finance or High School Diploma/General Education Degree (GED) and 4 plus years of specific experience

• 1 plus years of experience with Ariba in a high-volume Procure to Pay environment, focusing on Purchase Order/Accounts Payable processing, along with expertise in using formulas, If Statements, and Pivot Tables for analysis and automation identification
• Experience working in a distribution, logistics and/or manufacturing environment
• Experience with cloud-based ERP i.e., SAP software

This position is hybrid 3 days a week on-site at our Northbrook, IL office.

• This position requires knowledge of supplier onboarding, system integration, market analysis, TCO usage, RFQ/RFI capability.

• Owns strategic sourcing process in supplier selection, management of supplier service level agreements and contract review and negotiations for assigned commodities.

• This position is the relationship manager in collaboration with the appropriate internal client for all external supplier relationships for assigned commodities.

• This includes maximizing supplier relationships, managing supplier expectations and building supplier relationships.

• Recognized as an industry and product expert in the assigned commodities.

• This includes keeping up to date on new products and materials and managing the introduction of said items in an economically advantageous way for UL.

• Maintain, re-evaluate, and expand reliable sources of supply and secondary sources as alternates in order to promote appropriate competition.

• Leverage and collaborate with internal UL clients to maximize cost, delivery and quality value to UL.

• University Degree (Equivalent to a U.S. Bachelors' degree) in Business Administration or a related field.

• 2 years of procurement experience.

• Proficiency in Excel, specifically with analyzing spend data/market analysis.

• Oracle ERP system experience preferred.

• Demonstrated ability to lead high value medium complexity sourcing teams.

• Detailed knowledge of Sourcing and Supplier Management.

• Detailed knowledge of purchasing principles.

• Detailed knowledge of negotiating techniques and principles.

• Detailed knowledge of business and contract law.

What we offer:

Total Rewards: We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. The estimated salary range for this position is $76,000 to $80,000 and is based on multiple factors, including job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, as well as other factors. This position is eligible for annual bonus compensation with a target payout of 10% of the base salary. This position also provides health benefits such as medical, dental and vision; wellness benefits such as mental and financial health; and retirement savings (401K) commensurate with the standard rewards offered in each individual location or country. We also provide full-time employees with paid time off including vacation (15 days), holiday including floating holidays (12 days) and sick time off (72 hours).

A global leader in applied safety science, UL Solutions (NYSE: ULS) transforms safety, security and sustainability challenges into opportunities for customers in more than 110 countries. UL Solutions delivers testing, inspection and certification services, together with software products and advisory offerings, that support our customers' product innovation and business growth. The UL Mark serves as a recognized symbol of trust in our customers' products and reflects an unwavering commitment to advancing our safety mission. We help our customers innovate, launch new products and services, navigate global markets and complex supply chains, and grow sustainably and responsibly into the future. Our science is your advantage.

UL LLC has been and will continue to be an equal opportunity employer. To assure full implementation of this equal employment policy, we will take steps to assure that:

Persons are recruited, hired, assigned and promoted without regard to race, color, age, sex or gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, religion, creed, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship, ancestry, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, pregnancy, marital or familial status, or any other protected category under applicable law.

The Procurement Team at Clearwater is currently seeking a Procurement Specialist. In this role, you will support the execution and strategic direction of Clearwater's sourcing and purchasing programs. The ideal candidate will support the development of sourcing strategy, manage procurement initiatives, and work with business partners to optimize supplier relationships.

Responsibilities:

• Support the execution of procurement strategies for the organization
• Lead sourcing opportunities for indirect spend across several categories
• Negotiate contracts with third party suppliers for favorable pricing and terms
• Manage vendor relationships and performance through business reviews as part of Supplier Relationship Strategy
• Build relationships with internal business partners, providing support with regard to supplier management
• Maintain accurate Procurement records and data in Coupa
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: work with related teams to ensure compliance with regulations, policies, and contract terms; collaborate with finance and accounting teams

• 3+ years experience in Procurement or Purchasing
• Bachelor's Degree
• Strong understanding of purchasing processes and procedures
• Knowledge of purchasing systems
• Team-oriented approach, ability to influence without authority
• Ability to manage multiple tasks at once, understanding how to prioritize and communicate progress while working independently
• Strong attention to detail, organizational and problem-solving skills