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# VP, Global Procurement with a Major Retailer – Chicago, IL


Role Overview for VP, Global Procurement with a Major Retailer – Chicago, IL
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a globally recognized, multi-billion-dollar retail leader in their search for a transformative Vice President of Global Procurement. Based in their corporate headquarters in the vibrant city of Chicago, IL, this executive will be a pivotal member of the senior leadership team, responsible for architecting and executing a world-class global procurement strategy. Our client is a household name, renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the company’s profitability, operational efficiency, and long-term strategic goals.
The VP, Global Procurement will be the chief architect of the company’s sourcing and procurement function, overseeing all aspects of direct and indirect spend across a complex global landscape. This role demands a visionary leader who can balance strategic thinking with tactical execution, driving cost optimization while simultaneously enhancing supplier quality, innovation, and sustainability.
You will lead a large, multi-disciplinary team of procurement professionals, fostering a culture of high performance, continuous improvement, and strategic business partnership. The ideal candidate will be a seasoned expert in supply chain and procurement, with a proven track record of success within a fast-paced, large-scale retail or consumer goods environment. You will be responsible for managing billions in spend, navigating intricate international supply chains, and building resilient, ethical, and cost-effective sourcing networks. This position reports directly to the Chief Supply Chain Officer and offers significant visibility and influence across the entire organization, including close collaboration with Finance, Operations, Merchandising, and Legal departments.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Global Procurement with a Major Retailer – Chicago, IL
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop, articulate, and implement a comprehensive global procurement strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives, financial targets, and growth initiatives. Champion a strategic sourcing mindset throughout the organization.
Category Management
Oversee the development and execution of sophisticated category management strategies for all direct (goods for resale) and indirect (goods not for resale) spend. Ensure deep market analysis, cost modeling, and total cost of ownership (TCO) principles are applied.
Supplier Relationship Management (SRM)
Design and implement a robust SRM framework to cultivate strategic partnerships with key global suppliers. Drive supplier performance through scorecards, business reviews, and joint business planning to foster innovation, ensure quality, and mitigate risk.
Cost Optimization & Value Creation
Identify and execute strategic initiatives to deliver significant cost savings and value creation across the enterprise. Lead high-stakes negotiations for major contracts and purchasing agreements, ensuring favorable terms and conditions.
Team Development & Leadership
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-caliber global procurement team. Foster a collaborative and results-oriented culture, promoting professional growth and building a pipeline of future leaders within the function.
Risk Management & Compliance
Establish a proactive supply chain risk management program to identify, assess, and mitigate potential disruptions, including geopolitical, financial, and logistical risks. Ensure all procurement activities adhere to legal, ethical, and corporate compliance standards.
Digital Transformation & Technology
Champion the adoption and optimization of procurement technologies, including e-sourcing, procure-to-pay (P2P) systems, and data analytics platforms, to enhance efficiency, transparency, and decision-making capabilities.
Sustainability & ESG Initiatives
Integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria into the procurement process. Develop and lead a sustainable sourcing program that promotes supplier diversity, ethical labor practices, and environmental stewardship across the supply chain.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a strategic partner to key business stakeholders across Merchandising, Finance, IT, Marketing, and Operations. Ensure procurement strategies support their objectives and drive enterprise-wide value.
Budgeting & Financial Management
Develop and manage the annual procurement department budget. Provide accurate forecasting, spend analysis, and reporting to the executive leadership team, demonstrating the financial impact and ROI of procurement initiatives.
Requirements for the VP, Global Procurement with a Major Retailer – Chicago, IL
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, and supply chain management, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity overseeing a global function for a large, complex organization.
Industry Expertise
Deep experience within the retail, CPG, or a closely related industry is essential. Must have a thorough understanding of both direct and indirect procurement within a retail context.
Leadership Acumen
Demonstrated ability to lead, inspire, and manage large, geographically dispersed teams. A track record of developing talent and building high-performance organizational capabilities.
Negotiation Skills
World-class negotiation and influencing skills, with a proven history of successfully negotiating multi-million dollar contracts with global suppliers.
Financial Acumen
Strong financial and analytical skills, including expertise in cost modeling, spend analytics, and budget management. Ability to translate complex data into actionable business insights.
Strategic Mindset
Proven ability to think strategically, anticipate future trends, and develop long-range plans that create a competitive advantage.
Technical Proficiency
Hands-on experience with modern ERP and procurement software suites (e.g., SAP Ariba, Coupa, Oracle).
Certifications
Professional certifications such as the Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or similar are highly desirable.
Global Experience
Extensive experience managing international supply chains, including sourcing from diverse regions such as Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
Communication Skills
Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with and influence stakeholders at all levels, including C-suite executives.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and long-term incentive plan (equity).
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents. Access to wellness programs, mental health resources, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Retirement Planning
A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Paid Time Off
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company-paid holidays.
Professional Development
A strong commitment to your growth with opportunities for continued education, executive coaching, and attendance at industry conferences.
Employee Discounts
Significant discounts on company products and services.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the right candidate.
Work-Life Balance
A supportive and flexible work environment that values the importance of a healthy work-life integration.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search being conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a dynamic and strategic procurement leader ready to make a lasting impact on a global retail powerhouse, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and accomplishments.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment, and we specialize in placing top-tier talent in transformative roles. To learn more about our expertise in this area, please visit JRG Partners’ Supply Chain & Operations Executive Search practice. We look forward to reviewing your application. Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer.