Senior Consultant

Senior Consultant, SPIAArete is one-of-a-kind when it comes to consulting firm culture.We're a global, innovative management and technology consulting firm with offices in the U.S. and India. Our name comes from the Greek word for excellence: "Areté." And excellence is exactly what we strive for.We're celebrating our fourth year as one of Forbes' World's Best Management Consulting Firms – and our success starts with our people. From robust career development planning to competitive life and wellness benefits, AArete's "Culture of Care" takes a holistic approach to the employee experience.AAretians (our team members) are leaders at every level. You are encouraged to unlock your full potential by directly contributing to our mission and prioritizing personal development and fulfillment.The RoleAArete is actively seeking a dynamic Senior Consultant with experience supporting healthcare payer organizations, with a focus on supply chain, procurement, and cost optimization. This role blends analytical problem-solving with hands-on execution, supporting initiatives such as strategic sourcing, vendor management, and operational efficiency improvement.As a Senior Consultant, you will bring a strong analytical mindset, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a commitment to excellence. You thrive in collaborative environments and are energized by solving complex, ambiguous business challenges for healthcare clients.Recognized as a high-performing self-starter, critical thinker, and confident communicator, you will play a meaningful role across both client engagements and internal initiatives. In this role, you will take ownership of driving workstreams to successful outcomes, while also helping to guide and mentor junior team members. Your expertise and judgment will be critical in delivering innovative, client-ready solutions that create measurable impact.Work You'll DoAs a Senior Consultant at AArete, you will lead and drive teams to successful outcomes through the following:Own and execute workstreams by identifying innovative solutions through data analysis, research, and stakeholder collaborationLead initiatives focused on procurement optimization, strategic sourcing, and vendor management within healthcare payer environmentsConduct spend analysis and category assessments to identify cost savings opportunities and operational efficienciesEvaluate supplier performance, contract structures, and pricing models to support improved financial and operational outcomesSupport RFP processes, vendor selection, and contract negotiationsDevelop business cases and financial models to quantify impact and support decision-makingAnalyze complex datasets, including spend data, vendor performance metrics, and healthcare cost drivers (medical, pharmacy, and administrative)Deliver actionable recommendations and support implementation of operational and cost optimization initiativesEstablish strong stakeholder rapport and own client communications, including presenting analytical findings and recommendationsDevelop and deliver clear, compelling presentations with a focus on structured storytelling and executive-level communicationFacilitate client meetings, working sessions, and problem-solving discussions with increasing independenceMentor and guide Analysts and Consultants by modeling strong problem-solving, communication, and accountabilityAsk insightful questions to uncover root causes, challenge assumptions, and identify new opportunitiesSupport broader consulting engagements across strategy, operations, and performance improvement as neededOther duties as assignedRequirements4 + years of consulting experience, with progressive responsibility and client-facing deliveryBachelor's degree requiredExperience supporting procurement, sourcing, supply chain, or vendor management initiativesDemonstrated experience driving cost reduction, spend optimization, or operational improvement effortsStrong analytical skills, with advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint; working knowledge of SQL is a plusExperience working with large, complex datasets and translating findings into actionable insightsAbility to own workstreams, manage multiple priorities, and operate effectively in ambiguous environmentsStrong communication skills, with the ability to engage confidently with client stakeholdersHigh self-motivation, accountability, and a proactive approach to problem-solvingAbility to balance attention to detail with a broader strategic perspectiveAble to see the big picture while navigating ambiguity and competing prioritiesExceptional independent judgment and decision-making skills, especially in client-facing environmentsCreative and innovative problem-solving abilities with a solutions-oriented mindsetStrong project and process management skills, with the ability to balance and prioritize multiple responsibilitiesCultural flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced environmentAbility to communicate with confidence and maintain executive presence with both client and internal stakeholdersWillingness to engage in direct client interaction, including travel to client locations, when requiredMust be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorshipPreferred Requirements2+ years of experience with the healthcare industry, specifically with payersExperience in procurement, supply chain transformation, or vendor strategyFamiliarity with payer vendor ecosystems, including third-party service providersExperience supporting strategic sourcing, category management, or contract analysis initiativesDemonstrated ability to drive measurable cost savings or efficiency improvementsExperience with AArete's other focus industries: Pharmacy, Financial Services, Retail, Manufacturing, Higher Ed, or Technology & Professional ServicesBased in Chicago, IL, and flexible to work from our Chicago office as neededCompensation & BenefitsFlexible PTO, monthly half-day refuels, volunteer time off, 10 paid holidaysOwn Your Day flexible work policyCompetitive majority employer-paid benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K MatchGenerous paid parental leave optionsEmployer paid Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term DisabilityCharitable contribution matching programNew client commission opportunities and referral bonus programBike share discount programThe estimated base salary range for this position is $105,000 – $125,000. In addition to this base salary, individuals may be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus. This range is a part of a competitive, total compensation package together with our majority employer-paid benefits and incentive pay for eligible roles. Please note that this range is a guideline and individual total compensation may vary due to numerous factors including but not limited to experience level, certifications, and other relevant business considerations.AArete will accept applications until the position is filled. The job posting will be removed once the role is no longer available.We put humans at the center of our workWe're a global management and technology consulting firm specializing in strategic profitability improvement, digital transformation, and strategy & change for clients. Our cross-industry solutions are powered by a digital-first mindset, market intelligence, and data-driven approach to deliver purposeful change, actionable insights, and guaranteed results.But what sets us apart is our people. We are guided by our deeply embedded guiding principles: Excellence, Passion, Loyalty to Clients, Stewardship, Family, Community, Sustainability, and Inclusion.And we've been recognized as a top firm to work for by companies like Forbes, Top Workplaces Chicago Tribune, and Consulting Magazine.We've earned a Great Place to Work Certification™ and been named a World's Best Management Consulting Firm by Forbes, Vault's Top 50 Firms to Work For, Crain's Chicago Business Fast 50, Inc 5000's Fastest Growing Firms, and Consulting Magazine's Fastest Growing Firms.Learn more about our award-winning culture