Purchasing Manager

Overview

A Lot of Tenure. Company Promotes Within

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 platform)
• 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 and progression
• Incentives/bonus for meeting goals
• Competitive salary
• Leadership role with high visibility
• Career growth and advancement opportunities
• Collaborative and fast-paced environment
• 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