Strategic Sourcing Specialist

Job description :

Strategy and policy development : Create and implement strategic purchasing policies and procedures to ensure cost-effective and timely procurement of necessary goods and services.

Supplier management : Research, evaluate, and select suppliers based on cost, quality, reliability, and delivery. This includes building and maintaining strong, long-term relationships with key vendors.

Negotiation and contracts : Lead negotiations with suppliers on pricing, terms, and contracts to secure the most advantageous deals for the company.

Inventory control : Oversee and manage inventory levels by monitoring demand, forecasting future needs, and scheduling deliveries to avoid shortages or overstocking.

Budgeting and cost control : Manage the procurement budget, track key metrics to reduce expenses, and identify opportunities for cost savings.

Team leadership : Hire, train, and supervise a team of buyers and purchasing agents. This includes setting departmental goals and ensuring team efficiency.

Cross-departmental collaboration : Work closely with other departments, such as finance, production, and marketing, to understand their needs and align purchasing activities with company goals.

Compliance and risk management : Ensure all purchasing activities comply with internal policies and external regulations. Assess and mitigate risks associated with suppliers and the supply chain.

Key qualifications and skills

Experience : This roles require at least 5+ years of experience in purchasing or procurement, often with some experience in a supervisory or leadership capacity.

Negotiation skills : The ability to negotiate effectively with vendors is a critical skill for securing favorable terms and pricing.

Analytical and financial skills : Strong data analysis, forecasting, and budget management skills are essential for identifying market trends and optimizing costs.

Communication and interpersonal skills : Must be able to build and maintain strong relationships with both external suppliers and internal stakeholders.

Organizational and planning skills : Excellent time management, project management, and organizational skills are necessary to oversee multiple tasks and manage deadlines.

Leadership skills : The ability to lead and motivate a team of purchasing professionals is a key aspect of the management role.

Software proficiency : Experience with advanced Microsoft Office (especially Excel) is required.