Sourcing Specialist

Position Summary

This position supports sourcing projects and/or a set of assigned commodities/market segments—primarily purchased components (e.g., metal stampings, seals, and packings)—by deploying best practices, procurement tools, and negotiation skills. The role is also responsible for sourcing and managing outside services. Additionally, the position assists in contract execution, implementation, and supplier reviews for assigned contracts. The Sourcing Specialist works collaboratively and proactively to identify process, sourcing, outside-service, and contract improvement opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Identifies and recommends suppliers by investigating potential suppliers, researching parts, equipment, machinery, services, and materials availability, prepares statements of work for items proposed for procurement.
• May assist with supplier negotiations on new procurements or changes to existing purchase orders.
• Develops potential bidders lists and formal requests for quotation or proposal.
• Conducts supplier site visits and evaluates them as to production capability, performance, delivery, and other key business criteria.
• Evaluates proposals from potential suppliers.
• Selects suppliers for a variety of highly complex or technical materials, supplies or services and negotiates price, delivery, quality and service.
• Establishes preferred supplier selection criteria based on supplier evaluations of price, quality, delivery, certifications, and compliance with governmental procurement regulations.
• Promotes and uses strategic suppliers.
• Develops standard/automated re-order procedures.
• Issues purchase orders and agreements that accurately reflect price, schedule, terms, and conditions as negotiated with suppliers.
• Maintains accurate lead times for assigned items.
• Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, reviewing trade publications, establishing networks, and/or participating in professional associations.
• Represents company on high-level projects.
• Contributes to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed.
• Work assignments may include cross-functional or project team responsibilities (e.g., continuous improvement).
• Follows established safety and environmental policies, procedures, and methods applicable to the work area.
• Performs other duties as necessary.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (BA) in Supply Chain, Business Administration, or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience which has provided both theoretical and practical knowledge in the field.
• General knowledge of the rubber industry is desired.
• General knowledge of metal stamping products is desired.
• 5+ years of increasingly responsible related experience.
• Certificate in Purchasing Management (CPM) or APICS desired.
• Thorough knowledge of purchasing and negotiating methods, principles and concepts.
• Knowledge of industry practices, general business operations, and policies.
• Knowledge of legal and regulatory requirements related to procurement.
• Ability to effectively assess and implement continuous improvement principles and techniques.
• Proficient with standard business application software and specialized purchasing and/or materials systems (e.g. electronic data interface (EDI) or manufacturing resource planning (MRP) systems).
• Ability to effectively communicate and present information to suppliers, team members, team leaders, and top management.
• Ability to negotiate effectively to obtain best prices and terms on products, materials, and services.
• Ability to effectively demonstrate team member competencies and participate in goal-setting, performance feedback, and self-development activities.