Sr Buyer
Aston Carter · Hopkins, MN · 6 days ago
On-sitePurchasing$50–$57/hrContract
Responsibilities
- Lead the sourcing strategy and execution for enterprise technology categories, including software platforms such as virtual care, care coordination, and financial systems, as well as hardware and related technology services.
- Evaluate business needs and translate requirements into effective, scalable sourcing strategies that align with organizational goals.
- Benchmark vendors and pricing models to ensure market competitiveness and identify opportunities for improved value.
- Own the full sourcing lifecycle from concept to contract execution, including needs assessment and intake, market research, and supplier identification.
- Develop and execute RFx processes (RFP, RFQ, RFI), including documentation, communications, and timelines.
- Evaluate supplier proposals, conduct comparative analysis, and lead supplier selection decisions in partnership with key stakeholders.
- Lead commercial and contractual negotiations, including pricing, service levels, and performance metrics.
- Drive contract finalization, ensure accurate documentation, and manage a smooth handoff to relevant operational and functional teams.
- Ensure all sourcing activities align with enterprise standards, timelines, and financial objectives.
- Negotiate pricing, commercial terms, service levels, and contractual protections that safeguard organizational interests.
- Assess and mitigate financial, operational, and compliance risks within supplier agreements.
- Ensure contracts comply with internal policies and support long-term strategic objectives.
- Serve as a trusted advisor to internal stakeholders across IT, Finance, Operations, and executive leadership.
- Build strong cross-functional relationships and influence decision-making through clear, concise communication.
- Analyze technology spend, vendor performance, and cost drivers to identify opportunities for savings and value optimization.
- Identify opportunities for vendor consolidation, efficiency improvements, and enhanced service delivery.
- Support fact-based decision-making using data, analysis, and market insights.
- Prioritize workstreams, manage timelines, and ensure consistent progress and on-time delivery across projects.
- Maintain high levels of accuracy, organization, and documentation across all sourcing initiatives.
- Communicate clearly and consistently with stakeholders on project status, risks, and outcomes.
Essential Skills
- At least 3 years of progressive experience in developing market-leading category management and sourcing strategies.
- At least 3 years of experience leading complex strategic sourcing projects in a cross-functional team environment.
- At least 3 years of experience benchmarking, constructing, and negotiating complex master agreements and statements of work.
- Demonstrated success in a high-demand, multi-tasking environment with the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects.
- Strong ability to concisely articulate positions and garner support quickly from various levels of leadership.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Teams.
- Proven skills in procurement, purchasing, and negotiation within technology categories.
- Experience in IT category management, including software and/or hardware.
- Strong analytical skills to interpret spend data, vendor performance, and market insights.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to act as a trusted advisor.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- 6 or more years of experience within IT software or hardware categories.
- 5 or more years of experience negotiating complex technology deals and developing and leading RFx projects.
- Experience using eRFx tools or relevant sell-side negotiation experience.
- Strong understanding of IT software and hardware categories, including key commercial and technical considerations.
- Knowledge of e-procurement tools and previous experience utilizing Procure-to-Pay and Contracting modules or similar procurement systems.
- High-impact, results-oriented mindset with the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-demand environment.
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail across multiple concurrent initiatives.