Buyer 3 4P/538

Buyer III
Experience Level: Senior (10-15 Years)
Function: Procurement / Supply Chain / Purchasing
Industry: Utilities / Energy / Power Generation / Corporate Services

Client- Southern Company

Contract- 1 Year

Location- Birmingham, AL
Position Summary

The Buyer III is responsible for leading and executing procurement activities that support enterprise category management strategies and business partner requirements. This role oversees end-to-end procurement operations , including strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, supplier management, and purchase order execution, ensuring the cost-effective, timely, and compliant acquisition of goods and services .

The ideal candidate brings deep experience in utility or industrial procurement , strong negotiation skills, ERP expertise, and the ability to collaborate across finance, engineering, legal, and supply chain teams.
Key Responsibilities
Procurement Strategy & Strategic Sourcing

• Develop and execute procurement strategies aligned with organizational goals, budgets, and operational needs
• Lead strategic sourcing initiatives , including market research, supplier evaluation, and competitive bidding
• Locate and qualify sources of supply for materials and services

Purchasing & Contract Execution

• Issue requests for quotes (RFQs) and conduct bidder meetings
• Analyze bids, pricing, and material reorder parameters
• Create and manage purchase orders for services and materials
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions with suppliers
• Draft and manage purchase contracts for material and service acquisitions

Supplier Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers
• Monitor supplier performance and resolve issues related to pricing, invoicing, specifications, or delivery
• Collaborate with suppliers to improve cost, quality, and service levels

Contract & Compliance Management

• Ensure strict adherence to procurement procedures, documentation requirements, and audit controls
• Maintain compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, including Uniform Commercial Code (UCC)
• Manage supplier contracts, renewals, modifications, and compliance with terms

Inventory & Supply Chain Coordination

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to manage inventory levels and prevent stockouts
• Support logistics, expediting, and material delivery activities
• Coordinate with traffic/logistics, engineering, finance, risk management, and legal teams

Cost Analysis & Optimization

• Conduct cost analysis to identify cost-reduction opportunities
• Optimize procurement processes while maintaining or improving quality
• Provide procurement and cost-saving reports to management

Leadership & Continuous Improvement

• Mentor and support procurement staff as needed
• Promote sustainability and responsible sourcing practices
• Identify and implement process improvements and best practices

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Finance, Law, or a related field
• 10-15 years of experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain roles
• Strong knowledge of purchasing and supply chain practices and standards
• Experience with inventory management, contracts, and procurement operations
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple transactions under time constraints
• Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional certifications such as:
  
  • Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)
  • Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)
  • Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM)
• Experience in utility, power generation, power delivery, gas, or corporate procurement
• Strong knowledge of IBM Maximo ERP or similar enterprise systems
• General knowledge of finance and accounting practices

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in ERP systems and procurement tools
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and databases
• Experience analyzing procurement data and generating reports

Work Environment

• Corporate or hybrid office environment
• Frequent interaction with suppliers and cross-functional stakeholders
• Fast-paced, deadline-driven procurement operations