Peoria County’s Purchasing Agent Jim Smith was named Professional Buyer of the Year by the Illinois Association of Public Procurement Officials (IAPPO). The Professional Buyer of the Year Award is given to the individual who demonstrates outstanding professionalism while contributing significantly to the field of public purchasing throughout the year. As a result of his accomplishment, Smith was additionally recognized at the National Institute for Public Procurement’s (NIGP) Annual Forum & Products Exposition held in National Harbor, Maryland this fall.

Jim Smith has been with Peoria County for 19 years; the last five as the County’s purchasing agent. He is responsible for implementing the County’s Purchasing Ordinance and facilitating all bids and Request for Proposals administered by Peoria County. Smith is a member of the IAPPO and NIGP. He served as the Committee Chair of IAPPO’s Fall Conference and is currently the Secretary for that state association.