Senior Category Buyer

ABOUT THE ROLE Chicago Public Schools (CPS) serves over 325,000 students and is focused on providing equitable resources and a world-class learning experience. The Department of Procurement and Contracts ensures schools receive the highest quality goods and services at the best price. Reporting to the Category Manager, the Senior Category Buyer collaborates with schools and departments on competitive solicitations and manages purchasing projects presented to the Board of Education for approval. This is a full-time, exempt position paid on a salary basis. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Work with the Category Manager to define and execute a 3-year strategy for complex categories. - Develop sourcing plans with clients, advising on procurement type, contract length, and bundling opportunities. - Implement a tactical approach to sourcing and lead negotiations for complex RFPs and RFQs to obtain the best value. - Analyze final vendor responses and provide recommendations based on cost, cash, quality, and strategic fit criteria. - Lead the sourcing process to finalize vendor contractual agreements. - Assess and manage supplier performance for continuous improvement by leading supplier meetings. - Develop collaborative partnerships with vendors to drive cost savings through operational supply chain improvements. - Propose and implement improvements in CPS procurement processes. - Develop and facilitate training for staff on CPS systems and procurement processes. - Serve as a mentor to other Category Buyers to help them develop their professional skills. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in business, supply chain, or a related field. - Minimum of 5 years of professional procurement experience, preferably in a large, complex organization. - Experience with the solicitation (RFX) process and negotiations. - Advanced Microsoft Office proficiency, with required proficiency in Excel. - Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. - Strong verbal and written communication skills to maintain effective relationships with internal and external entities. - Strong negotiation and influencing skills. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Master's degree in business, supply chain, or a related field is preferred. - Oracle experience is preferred. - Must be action-oriented and well-organized. - Chicago Residency: Employees must live within the geographic boundaries of the City of Chicago within 6 months of their hire date and maintain residency throughout employment. All CPS employees must be residents of Illinois. SELECTION PROCESS - Candidates will be evaluated based on their qualifications, experience, and alignment with CPS core values. - Final salary offers will be determined based on the selected candidate's specific qualifications and experience. HOW TO APPLY - Submit an application for Job Number 260001YX through the Chicago Public Schools employment portal. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Position Type: Non-Union Position - Job Grade: S08 - Overtime Status: Exempt - Primary Location: Central-42 West Madison Street (Procurement and Contracts) - Benefits include comprehensive health coverage (medical, pharmacy, dental, vision, behavioral health, EAP, wellness program), financial security options (basic life, disability insurance, pension plans, 403(b) and 457(b) supplemental retirement, FSAs, pet insurance), and work-life balance support (paid leave, sick leave, vacation days, parental leaves, short-term disability, and religious holidays).