Virtual Program Manager Jobs in Itasca, IL (NOW HIRING)

QCS Purchasing Cooperative is a leading supply-chain solutions provider and the largest purchasing cooperative of its kind in the food and beverage industry. We leverage deep industry knowledge, consultative expertise, technology, and resources to help members manage their buying more efficiently and cost-effectively. QCS Purchasing Cooperative is committed to empowering our member-owner companies through strategic partnerships and innovative purchasing solutions.

Position Overview: The Program Manager is responsible for developing, managing, and growing QCS Purchasing programs that deliver measurable value to QCS members. This role serves as the primary commercial and relationship owner for assigned procurement categories, balancing member advocacy, supplier performance, and QCS growth objectives.

The Program Manager acts as a trusted advisor to members and a strategic partner to suppliers, combining technical expertise, relationship-building, and consultative selling to drive program adoption, participation, and long-term value.

Salary Range: $75,000 - $85,000

Key Contributions:   

• Lead and execute category strategies that increase annual volume, member satisfaction, member value, and participation in QCS programs.
• Drive growth of assigned programs through consultative engagement, influence, and relationship development.·       Strengthen QCS’s position as a value-added procurement partner to its membership.
• Identify, build, and execute sourcing strategies in support of QCS Member needs and organizational objectives.
• Serve as the primary relationship owner for assigned supply partners and categories, building trust with stakeholders across member relations, marketing, procurement, finance, and leadership.
•  Support members with supply chain needs including total cost reduction, service optimization, sustainability, risk mitigation, innovation, and operational efficiency.
• Manage key supplier relationships, including: Annual business reviews, Program scorecards and KPIs, Supplier site visits and performance reviews.    
• Negotiate, implement, and manage contracts and service agreements, ensuring alignment with member needs and compliance with QCS standards.
•  Analyze current solutions, identify gaps, and define strategies for program growth and improvement.
• Establish objectives, action plans, and key metrics; monitor results and adjust strategies accordingly.
•  Communicate category strategy, market conditions, and program performance internally and externally.
• Track and report on industry developments, including pricing trends, capacity constraints, innovation, and regulatory considerations.
• Identify opportunities to improve total member value, including leading or supporting RFPs when appropriate.
• Collaborate closely with QCS Member Services to support member onboarding, issue resolution, and ongoing engagement.
• Conduct regular member interactions (virtual and onsite) to understand operational needs and uncover new value opportunities.
• Identify and develop new offerings or enhancements to meet evolving member needs.
• Drive compliance with standardized contracts and programs across assigned categories.
• Communicate market updates, pricing changes, and program enhancements to membership.
•  Investigate and resolve pricing, invoicing, and service issues in coordination with suppliers.
• Participate in QCS conferences, supplier events, and member meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Success in This Role Looks Like·     

• Increased member participation and spend in assigned programs.
• Strong, trusted relationships with QCS members and supplier partners.
• Improved supplier performance and program execution.
• Clear, actionable category strategies with measurable results.
• High member satisfaction and retention within assigned categories.

Requirements:

• A Bachelor’s degree in a business discipline is preferred 
• Strong analytical skills a must.
• Be a resourceful self-starter, who is comfortable driving results and deadlines autonomously 
• Proven project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively. 
• Working knowledge of business intelligence tools.
• Have excellent communication skills (verbal and written) 
• Your previous coworkers could use the following words to describe you: committed, collaborative, approachable, articulate, and flexible 
• You are able to sit, stand or walk for extended periods of time, and have a drivers license. 
• You have the ability to travel multiple days at a time, averaging about two trips per month. 

Why Join Us? At QCS Purchasing Cooperative, you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to driving growth and value for our member-owners. We offer a supportive work environment, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to make a meaningful impact within our Cooperative. 

We also offer:Paid time off programHealth, dental, and vision insurance options; Employer-paid disability and life insurance; 401 (k) retirement plan with company contributions; Paid holidays and floating holiday; Additional voluntary benefits available

To Apply: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you would be a great fit for the Program (Procurement) Manager position at QCS Purchasing Cooperative.