Procurement Specialist

Join The FamilyCome work for an exciting company offering great benefits, challenging opportunities, and colleagues who feel more like family.Job SummaryThe Sourcing Specialist is a key member of the Procurement team, charged with driving compelling results and value to the US & Canada business through strategic and tactical procurement activities. This role shall serve as a individual contributor to the overall mission and vision of the team. The Sourcing Specialist's primary responsibility entails executing strategic sourcing projects and category strategies. The Sourcing Specialist will also be responsible for adhering to project plans and conducting negotiations with suppliers. In executing these responsibilities, the Sourcing Specialist will help US & Canada to meet strategic goals related to growth, cost savings, and risk management. This role will work directly with the supply community and be a liaison between the suppliers and the business during competitive sourcing processes. The Sourcing Specialist will be responsible for delivering strong results that support the category strategy and provide significant value to the business units. This position will work cross-functionally with other individuals across US & Canada to drive close collaboration. To accomplish this, the Sourcing Specialist must have strategic procurement and sourcing expertise as well as a solid understanding of the business and strong organizational skills.Roles and ResponsibilitiesConduct spend analytics; use data to influence change and build strong ROI casesPerform market research; conduct external research to analyze market opportunities, risks, and trends associated with assigned categoriesModel, monitor, and report trends in underlying cost driversDevelop category expertise to fully understand supply market, appropriate sourcing strategies, and typical savings levers for a category of spendExecute sourcing events, with some direction as needed; create bid packages and coordinate the bid (RFI,RFT,RFQ) process including, pre-bid/proposal meetings, walk-throughs, bid openings, and bid reviewsConduct total cost modeling and scenario analysis to help stakeholders understand trade-offs and benefits to various outcomesHelp identify targets and leverage to support negotiations effortsAdhere to sourcing project plans; proactively communicate project timelines with business unitsHelp develop and capture intellectual capital such as RFP templates, analyses, case studies, etc.Help develop relationships with business unit stakeholders and build credibility of Global Sourcing & Strategy Solutions teamTracks project status and project results (e.g. savings, duration, supplier selection, etc.)Performs other duties as assignedPreferred QualificationsBachelor's degree is requiredMinimum of three (3) years of experience in Procurement, Business, Operations, Supply Chain, FinanceDemonstrated experience in strategically supporting data-driven cross-functional efforts and managing communications with diverse set of stakeholders.Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:Understanding and application of sourcing policies, procedures, and supply strategiesDesire and ability to work well with diverse employees and partners in a cooperative and friendly mannerCapable of coordinating across business units and sharing critical information, with particular strength in explaining complex concepts and coaching individuals through complex decision-makingCapable of managing deadlines and balancing multiple prioritiesComfortable with organizational change; able to thrive in a rapidly changing business environmentComfortable professionally challenging conventional thinking and existing processesStrong analytical and critical thinking skillsSolid organizational skillsEffective oral and written communications and presentation skillsProfessionalism and good judgmentCreative problem solvingMust be proficient in the use of the Microsoft Office SuitePossesses relevant category/technical knowledge, as applicableWork Environment and Physical DemandsPhysical demands include sitting for extended periods of time while frequently typing, viewing computer screens and use of mouse/keyboard.Operation of office equipment to include but not limited to telephones, printers, copiers, and scanners.Repetitive motion of data entry, hand, finger wrist motion and dexterity.May include filing and handling paperwork may involve reaching, grasping, or bending.Will require walking and standing during the office hours.Good vision for reading and screen use.Clear verbal communication and active listening, often over the phone or video calls.Austin Powder is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. Austin Powder also participates in E-Verify.