Associate Specialist, Sourcing Category Manager, Technology Applications

About the role

Northern Trust is a global leader in wealth management, asset servicing, asset management, and banking services. Founded in 1889, the company adheres to three guiding principles: Service, Expertise, and Integrity. These principles guide the behavior of its partners, who are committed to excellence and integrity in their work.

Responsibilities

• Develops sourcing strategy and performs category analytics.
• Manages RFx processes, including project management, RFx development, negotiations, and award process.
• Reviews and drafts contracts, including NDAs, Master Agreements, Statements of Work, and leads contract negotiations and ongoing administration.
• Maintains procurement processes and procedures.
• Maintains supplier adherence to contracts, conducts supplier activity reporting and business/performance reviews, and supports supplier rationalization and demand management.
• Supports and monitors regulatory and compliance requirements (e.g., OFAC, FCPA, Spend Analysis, Client Relationships).
• Reports procurement performance metrics.
• Manages supplier fitness, analyzes supplier business and financial performance, and establishes relationships with key partners.
• Supports and educates partners on policies and guidelines, and resolves related purchasing issues.
• Utilizes and maintains ERP and Contract Management Systems (ECM), including final agreement loading.
• Interacts with business partners to develop and implement strategies, enhance services, create new services, or improve processes.
• Identifies and addresses the impact of changes and processes, facilitates acceptance of change through training and communication, and provides ongoing support for solutions.

Requirements

• In-depth knowledge of supply chain management and procurement.
• Demonstrated experience in sourcing for indirect categories (e.g., IT).
• Strong analytical, sourcing, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Tech-savvy with basic application software proficiency, especially in MS Office Suites with advanced Excel skills.
• Experience with ERP systems like Peoplesoft.
• Success in time management; superior project management skills, attention to detail; thorough and organized.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or Finance, with six or more years of experience in sourcing or procurement-related fields, or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• An MBA or other advanced degree, along with a professional Procurement/Supply Chain Management designation (e.g., CSCP, CPM), is a strong plus.

Qualifications

• Authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for employment-based visa sponsorship.

Skills

• Technical expertise with ERP systems and Contract Management Systems (ECM).
• Strong analytical and sourcing skills.
• Advanced Excel skills.
• Project management and time management skills.
• Knowledge of procurement and supply chain management.
• Ability to negotiate effectively.
• Communication and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

At Northern Trust, we offer a comprehensive benefits package including retirement benefits (401k and pension), health and welfare benefits (medical, dental, vision, spending accounts, and disability), paid time off, parental and caregiver leave, life & accident insurance, and other voluntary and well-being benefits. We also provide a discretionary bonus program that may include an equity component.