Strategic Buyer

About the role

Because this position requires regular on-site work at our Creative Studios in Westlake, Ohio, we will focus on candidates who currently reside in Northeast Ohio. Remote work and relocation assistance are NOT available for this role.

Responsible for managing all aspects of category/commodity of the supplier relationship including compliance with our delivery, terms, quality, inventory goals and policies; and finalizing and communicating specifications for products and services required, qualifying suppliers, soliciting competitive proposals, negotiating price, terms, quality and service. Selecting suppliers for assigned categories/commodities. Interfaces with various departments to provide a high level of support and service.

Responsibilities

• Interfaces with various departments on projects/programs including Creative, Product Management, Fulfillment, Manufacturing, Legal, Risk Management.
• Help establish specifications for products and services and support requirements, within assigned category/commodity, services.
• Prepare and negotiate RFP’s.
• Sources new suppliers for key categories/commodities, evaluating and analyzing their capabilities to fulfill American Greetings needs for products and services.
• Providing innovation, competitive pricing, and quality.
• Ensure ongoing supplier development, to improve supply chain performance.
• Responsible for resolving quality issues with suppliers on products/services received.
• Identifies, evaluates and implements cost reduction strategies within the supply chain process.
• Responsible for drafting service and supply agreements.
• Reviews these agreements with Legal and management.
• Responsible for training, instructing and supervising.
• Develop and implement procurement strategies that align with business objectives.
• Conduct market research and analyze industry trends to identify cost savings opportunities.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure alignment with business needs and priorities.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the procurement function.
• Prepare and present procurement reports and analytics to senior management.
• All other duties as assigned by supervisor/manager.

Requirements

3+ years’ experience within procurement, sourcing, or supply chain management.

Skills

• Significant project management skills and understanding.
• Demonstrated decision-making abilities and a superior ability to integrate information and utilize independent, sound judgment.
• Ability to establish and build productive relationships, both internal and external.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize effectively.
• Ability to analyze and interpret business results.
• Strong PC skills including excellent knowledge of the complete Microsoft suite.
• Proficient in purchasing processes and procedures.
• Excellent communication skills including verbal and written.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree (Business preferred or other disciplines acceptable).