Purchasing agent Jobs in Chicago, IL

The Market Category and Purchasing Manager is responsible for the end-to-end performance of the Market’s retail categories within the East Bank Club. Reporting directly to the Director of Food & Beverage and working in partnership with Market and Culinary leadership, this role drives innovation, profitability, and member satisfaction through ownership of product assortment, purchasing, pricing, merchandising, and promotional strategy.

This role is accountable for sales growth, margin performance, and in-store execution, ensuring the Market delivers a high-quality, curated experience aligned with East Bank Club’s luxury positioning and Live Well philosophy.

Compensation: $90,000-105,000 annually

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Product Strategy & Category Management

• Develop and maintain a curated product assortment aligned with member preferences, luxury positioning, and evolving market trends.
• Balance “better-for-you” and indulgent offerings to support East Bank Club’s Live Well philosophy.
• Partner with Culinary and Nutrition teams to develop and refine grab-and-go, fit meals, and fresh offerings.
• Conduct market research and competitor analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and assortment gaps.
• Monitor category performance using key metrics and implement strategies to optimize sales, profitability, and member satisfaction.
• Develop and execute pricing strategies that balance profitability with member value perception.

Vendor & Purchasing Management

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers to secure quality products and favorable terms.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef and Market General Manager to manage inventory levels and control costs.
• Resolve procurement-related issues with vendors, departments, or staff.
• Lead and manage all staff within the Purchasing Department, including hiring, training, coaching, and performance management.
• Coordinate with vendors and internal teams on product placement, in-store displays, and merchandising support for new or seasonal products.

Operations Support & Team Collaboration

• Maintain accurate inventory records, POS systems, and reporting tools to ensure reliable data for decision-making.
• Ensure proper organization and condition of storage facilities and receiving areas.
• Conduct regular merchandising and product quality walks to ensure standards of presentation, freshness, and availability.
• Work closely with the Market management team to support daily operations as needed.
• Support cross-departmental initiatives, promotions, and member events.

Promotions & Program Development

• Develop and execute a promotional calendar in partnership with Marketing, Culinary, and Market leadership.
• Drive in-store activations, seasonal programs, and product launches to increase traffic and basket size.
• Support member events and cross-departmental initiatives through strategic product offerings.
• Evaluate promotional effectiveness and adjust strategies based on performance data and member feedback.

Other Responsibilities

• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across the Market and F&B department.
• Support cross-departmental initiatives and club-wide programming.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Food & Beverage.

Requirements

Qualifications/Standards:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience as a Category Manager in retail or food & beverage.
• 4+ years of experience managing a retail food establishment or similar operation.
• Strong understanding of upscale market trends, consumer behavior, and merchandising strategies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, category management tools, and POS/inventory systems.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and make informed, strategic decisions.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Detail-oriented, organized, and capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of inventory management, demand forecasting, pricing strategies, and margin optimization.
• Experience with vendor management, purchasing processes, and procurement best practices.
• Proven leadership skills with experience managing and developing staff.
• Experience in vendor management and negotiations.
• Ability to conduct market research and consumer surveys.
• Proficiency in data analysis and using analytics tools.

Benefits

Time Off & Retirement

• Paid Time Off
• 401(k) with company match up to 3%
• Value Sharing (Profit sharing)
• Holiday Bonus
• Paid Parental Leave
  

Health & Wellness:

• Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance
• HSA and FSA enrollment options
• Short- & Long-Term Disability options
• Life Insurance: Basic coverage equivalent to annual income, with voluntary options for additional coverage
• Long-Term Care options: Coverage up to 50% of annual income
• Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
• EAP (Employee Assistance Program)
• Pet Insurance through MetLife
  

Employee Perks:

• Free workout privileges
• Employee discounts in the Pro Shop, Spa & Salon services and in the Market
• Parking and transit benefits (pre-tax deduction)
• Access to Tickets at Work discounts
• Tuition reimbursement

East Bank Club is an Equal Opportunity Employer and drug/smoke-free workplace.