Procurement/Raw Material Specialist

Raw Material/Procurement Specialist Needed- Atlanta, GA

CKS Packaging is seeking a Raw Material/Procurement Specialist to lead supplier management, inventory optimization, sourcing strategies, and cost-reduction initiatives across multiple operational categories. This role supports 1 location by driving procurement standardization, supplier performance, inventory efficiency, and operational savings.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies that improve operational efficiency and reduce costs.
• Evaluate supplier pricing, quality, service levels, and market competitiveness.
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and service agreements with vendors.
• Identify opportunities for supplier consolidation, SKU rationalization, and procurement process improvements.
• Partner with Operations and leadership teams to implement company-wide purchasing initiatives.

Inventory & Category Management

• Manage supplier relationships and inventory programs for bags, color inventory, corrugated packaging, pallets, and industrial supplies.
• Analyze inventory usage and implement SKU reduction and standardization initiatives.
• Coordinate new product and SKU development to support operational needs.
• Drive cost-saving opportunities through supplier negotiations and sourcing alternatives.

Pallet & Packaging Procurement

• Oversee pallet procurement programs, including vendor management, pricing, logistics coordination, and invoice approval.
• Support packaging optimization efforts by reducing low-volume SKUs and improving purchasing leverage.
• Manage sourcing strategies across multiple regions while ensuring supply continuity and service consistency.

Waste & Facilities Services Management

• Lead waste management and dumpster service optimization programs across all facilities.
• Reduce operational costs by evaluating pickup schedules, service levels, and equipment needs.
• Coordinate waste service installations for new locations and resolve vendor service issues.

Cost Reduction & Spend Analysis

• Identify savings opportunities across indirect spend categories, including industrial supplies, uniforms, and facility services.
• Analyze purchasing trends and recommend lower-cost alternatives.
• Present sourcing recommendations and cost-saving initiatives to leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Procurement, Business, Operations Management, or a related field preferred.
• 3+ years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, supply chain, vendor management, or operations.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and supplier management skills.
• Experience supporting multi-site operations and inventory optimization initiatives preferred.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and spend analysis.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and supplier relationships simultaneously.

Preferred Skills

• Strategic Sourcing & Procurement
• Vendor & Supplier Management
• Inventory Optimization & SKU Rationalization
• Cost Reduction & Spend Analysis
• Packaging & Pallet Procurement
• Facilities & Waste Service Management
• Process Improvement
• Multi-Site Operations Support
• Data Analysis & Reporting