Purchasing Manager

Purchasing Manager
Waukegan, IL 60085
Salary $80,000 – $120,000

Kelly Services is seeking an experienced and strategic Purchasing Manager to lead procurement operations for a fast‑growing manufacturing organization in Waukegan, IL. This is an outstanding opportunity for a results-driven supply chain leader who thrives in a fast‑paced environment and enjoys building high‑performing teams, driving cost savings, optimizing inventory, and improving supplier performance.

This role will oversee purchasing operations, lead procurement staff, collaborate cross‑functionally with sourcing, manufacturing, planning, quality, and finance teams, and play a critical role in supporting operational success and supply chain efficiency.

As the Purchasing Manager, you will lead procurement strategy and daily purchasing operations while ensuring materials are sourced efficiently, cost‑effectively, and on time to support production demands.

• Lead, mentor, and develop the purchasing team, including Buyers and Senior Buyers
• Manage daily purchasing operations and procurement workflows
• Develop and implement purchasing strategies that align with operational and business goals
• Drive supplier performance improvements related to quality, delivery, and pricing
• Oversee inventory management initiatives to reduce excess inventory and improve JIT procurement processes
• Collaborate with planning, sourcing, manufacturing, quality, and finance teams to support production needs
• Identify and implement cost‑saving opportunities across purchasing categories
• Monitor purchasing KPIs, inventory levels, supplier performance, and procurement metrics
• Ensure timely purchase order processing and material availability
• Support ERP/MRP optimization and continuous process improvement initiatives
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, quality standards, and operational procedures
• Lead continuous improvement efforts using Lean, Six Sigma, and supply chain best practices

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field preferred
• 7+ years of procurement or purchasing experience within manufacturing or supply chain operations
• 5+ years of leadership or team management experience
• Strong knowledge of procurement strategy, supplier management, inventory control, and purchasing operations
• Experience purchasing packaging materials, corrugate, plastics, films, or related commodities highly preferred
• Knowledge of bulk chemical raw materials is a plus
• Strong ERP/MRP system experience (SAP, Oracle, or similar platforms)
• Advanced Microsoft Excel, reporting, and analytical skills
• Excellent communication, negotiation, leadership, and organizational abilities
• Experience driving continuous improvement and cost reduction initiatives

• Additional opportunities for growth
• Training/development programs
• Incentives/bonus for meeting goals
• A Lot of Tenure. Company Promotes Within
• Competitive Salary
• Leadership Role with High Visibility
• Career Growth and Advancement Opportunities
• Collaborative and Fast‑Paced Environment
• Comprehensive Benefits Package
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
• Employee Discounts & Wellness Programs
• Opportunity to Influence Supply Chain Strategy and Operational Success

This is an excellent opportunity for a procurement leader ready to make a meaningful impact in a growing manufacturing environment.