Strategic Sourcing Specialist

Job Description

Strategic Sourcing Specialist

Location: Remote (US) - you have to be a US citizen of a Permanent resident of US

Position Overview

We are seeking a Strategic Sourcing Specialist to develop and execute sourcing strategies that ensure a reliable, cost-effective, and competitive supply base for raw materials and packaging.

This role partners closely with Operations, R&D, and Quality to support product commercialization while driving supplier performance, contract optimization, risk management, and continuous cost improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies that support organizational objectives for quality, cost, and regulatory requirements.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to support product commercialization through timely and cost-effective sourcing strategies.
• Strategically consolidate the supplier base to leverage purchasing power and improve commercial terms.
• Proactively minimize supply interruptions by utilizing a risk-based approach to diversifying the supplier network.
• Monitor supplier performance using key metrics, including on-time delivery, quality, responsiveness, and service levels.
• Work with suppliers to improve service levels and consistently meet performance targets.
• Collaborate with suppliers to identify opportunities for cost reductions, process improvements, rebates, and additional commercial concessions.
• Recommend sourcing actions based on current and forecasted market conditions, including commodity changes and tariffs, to proactively manage business impacts.
• Collaborate with R&D and Quality teams to evaluate and qualify new materials and packaging technologies.
• Identify opportunities with suppliers to reduce costs and improve overall sourcing efficiency.
• Represent the organization at trade shows, supplier meetings, and industry events to expand sourcing opportunities and strengthen supplier relationships.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives using change management tools and methodologies.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to issue resolution and dashboard reporting.
• Stay current with industry trends and best practices through continuing education and professional networking.
• Ensure sourcing activities comply with applicable SQF, FDA, and USDA regulations.
• Understand long-term organizational goals and contribute to strategic sourcing initiatives that align with broader business objectives.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance on a full-time basis.
• Maintain professional relationships with internal and external business partners and consistently represent the organization in a positive manner.

Job Requirements

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum of six (6) years of experience in purchasing or strategic sourcing, preferably within a manufacturing environment.
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or a related field.
• Experience with supplier selection, contract negotiation, and supplier performance management.
• Strong analytical and data-driven decision-making skills, with the ability to assess supply chain risk and evaluate cost, quality, and inventory metrics.
• Solid understanding of inventory management, manufacturing processes, and operational workflows.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, ERP systems, and other digital tools.
• Ability to manage multiple sourcing initiatives and cross-functional projects in a dynamic environment.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and relationship-building skills.
• Professional certification such as ISM CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) or equivalent is preferred.
• Commitment to continuing education and professional development within the procurement and supply chain field.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Primarily office-based with regular interaction with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and other business partners.
• May occasionally require extended periods of standing, walking, climbing stairs, and working at various heights.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to work in environments with moderate noise and occasional exposure to varying temperatures, fumes, wet or dry conditions, and higher noise levels.
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally, in person or via video, and in writing.
• This is a fast-paced environment that may involve frequent interruptions and shifting priorities.
• Off-shift, weekend, and overtime work may occasionally be required.
• Overnight travel by car or airplane may be required, generally 5-10% of the time , including travel to vendor locations, trade shows, and educational seminars.