Sourcing Specialist

Job Overview:
Search Solution Group is seeking a Sourcing Specialist on behalf of our client, a global leader in industrial coating resins, adhesives, sealants, and specialty coatings. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career procurement professional looking to develop into a strategic sourcing leader. Working alongside experienced Sourcing Managers, the Sourcing Specialist will support supplier negotiations, sourcing strategies, contract management, and market analysis while gradually assuming ownership of sourcing activities for key raw materials. This role manages an annual spend of approximately $10-20 million and offers a clear career path toward a Sourcing Manager position.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies through Requests for Proposal (RFPs) and supplier negotiations.
• Optimize Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) while ensuring security and continuity of supply.
• Build cost models and support negotiation planning with data-driven insights.
• Monitor supplier contracts, pricing formulas, and savings performance.
• Participate in and eventually lead supplier performance reviews and business meetings.
• Analyze market trends, feedstock pricing, and supply-demand dynamics to identify risks and opportunities.
• Collaborate with operations, logistics, manufacturing, finance, and supply chain teams to implement sourcing decisions.
• Support forecasting, price variance analysis, and raw material risk mitigation initiatives.
• Lead or assist with Management of Change (MOC) processes involving new suppliers and raw materials.
• Track sourcing performance and contribute to cost savings initiatives.
• Maintain accurate procurement records and reporting within SAP and sourcing systems.
• Build strong supplier relationships while gradually taking ownership of supplier negotiations.

Requirements Include: Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Chemistry, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.

Experience:

• 2-4 years of experience in direct procurement, strategic sourcing, or supply chain.
• Experience supporting supplier negotiations and sourcing initiatives.
• Experience working in manufacturing or industrial environments is preferred.
• Experience with SAP and Ariba Sourcing is highly desirable.

Skills:

• Strong analytical and commercial decision-making skills.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office proficiency.
• Excellent negotiation and supplier relationship management abilities.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to analyze complex market data and pricing trends.
• Effective organizational and project management skills.

Certifications:

• Professional procurement certifications (CPSM, CPSD, CSCP, or similar) are a plus but not required.

Knowledge:

• Procurement and strategic sourcing best practices.
• Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) methodologies.
• Supplier negotiations and contract management.
• Chemical manufacturing markets, feedstocks, and pricing mechanisms are preferred.
• ERP systems, particularly SAP and Ariba.
• Market analysis and supply chain risk management.

Key Competencies:

• Strategic Sourcing
• Supplier Relationship Management
• Commercial Acumen
• Analytical Thinking
• Negotiation Skills
• Financial and Cost Analysis
• Problem Solving
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Communication Skills
• Initiative and Ownership
• Attention to Detail
• Organizational Skills
• Adaptability
• Decision Making
• Continuous Learning

How to Apply:
To apply for this position, please click the "Apply" button at the top right of your screen. Alternatively, you can email your application to View email address on click.appcast.io . Please ensure you include your resume and any other relevant documents or information that showcase your qualifications and suitability for the role. We appreciate your interest in joining our team and look forward to reviewing your application.

Company Overview:
Industry: Chemicals


Location: Alpharetta, Georgia

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
Search Solution Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued and respected. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status in our hiring process or employment practices. We believe that a diverse workforce brings unique perspectives and strengths, driving innovation and growth. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply and contribute to our team.

Disclaimer:
Please note that the job description provided is not exhaustive and is subject to change. Additional duties may be assigned as needed to meet the evolving needs of the organization and to ensure the successful completion of projects and objectives.