Purchasing Manager - Chicago, United States - BCD Travel

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    Description



    Purchasing Manager



    Date:

    May 7, 2024

    Location:



    US, Chicago , Virtual , United States, NOAM

    About Us:

    At BCD Meetings & Events (BCD M&E), we provide more than meeting and event planning services: we create connections that inspire, motivate and change behavior for our customers. As the world's most trusted and innovative meetings and events agency, BCD M&E cultivates a culture of people, passion and purpose to drive business forward.

    Headquartered in Chicago, with locations in 50+ countries across the world, BCD M&E's team of 1,800+ people are committed to sustainability and driving success for our customers, our business and ourselves. Our values are at the heart of everything we do, and we look for people that want to be a part of something special, can rise to our standards and love to bring their unique perspective to the table.

    While we can't guarantee every day will be the best (who can?), we can promise a community of people who genuinely care and lead with empathy, a flexible workplace with awesome perks and challenging work that means something.

    See what life is about at BCD M&E

    External Job Description: Purchasing Manager

    Job Summary:


    We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Purchasing Manager to join our team. The Purchasing Manager will be responsible for sourcing venues, negotiating contracts, managing budgets, and maintaining client and vendor relationships. This role requires strong communication skills, the ability to work collaboratively with clients and team members, and a deep understanding of virtual and hybrid event execution. The ideal candidate will have experience in purchasing, meeting planning, hotel sales, or catering, and possess excellent negotiation skills.

    Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

    - Contracting and Sourcing: Consult with clients and program managers to research and select venues that meet the specifications of the event. Utilize preferred hotels and virtual platforms to ensure quality service, minimize risk, and maximize pricing advantage. Initiate supplier contact and negotiate terms and conditions to protect the client's interests. Generate supplier contracts and maintain accurate documentation of savings and meeting information.

    - Client and Supplier Relations: Maintain professional and respectful relationships with suppliers, clients, and team members. Coordinate site inspections, negotiate supplier contracts, and ensure compliance with client brand and policies. Develop and maintain relationships with meeting clients to ensure repeat and new business.

    - Essential Job Functions: Work out of our Chicago or Charlotte office, or virtually if residing outside of these locations. Travel for site inspections and onsite operations as needed. Take direction, work well with others, meet deadlines, and handle tasks as assigned. Embrace change productively and adapt to new technology interfaces.

    Education / Knowledge / Experience:

    - Essential: Minimum three (3) years of purchasing, meeting planning, hotel sales, or catering experience. Proven negotiating skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe, Cvent, and WebEx. Ability to quickly adapt to and learn new technology interfaces. Travel industry and destination knowledge.

    - Preferred: College degree strongly preferred. CMP certification is a plus.

    If you are a highly motivated individual with a passion for event planning and procurement, we encourage you to apply for the Purchasing Manager position. Join our team and contribute to the success of our clients' meetings and events

    THE PERKS

    Flexible Working

    We believe that a flexible working environment is key to getting the best out of our teams. We will support you to work where you need to and when you need to, depending on how you work best.

    Room to Grow

    Our line of work and business structure challenge our people in a way that inspires growth, with learning and development built into every role. We give individuals ownership over the direction and speed in which they grow.

    Everyone has a voice

    We thrive on conversations that spark curiosity and empathy. No matter how big or how small, every voice is heard, considered and respected.

    Make your move

    The diversity of roles across BCD M&E's global locations means that our people often find new adventures during their time with us. Join us as a meeting planner role in the UK, stay for a global marketing career - there's always room to move.

    We've got you covered

    Our extensive benefits include comprehensive healthcare, retirement plans, continued education support, diverse work locations, travel and hotel discounts, volunteer and sustainability opportunities and a successful employee recognition program.

    We're positive. You'll love it.

    It starts from the top. Our leaders lead with positivity, believe in our people and trust us to do the right thing. There will always be support along your journey, in little and big ways.

    We carefully consider a wide range of compensation factors, including your professional background and experience. The salary range for candidates in applicable jurisdictions in the US for the position of Purchasing Manageris between $53,000 - $65,000. The actual pay depends on your skills, qualifications, experience, geographical location, and project budget.

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