Procurement Specialist

Consulting to perm opportunity with leading cybersecurity software firm (around 600 employees worldwide). IT procurement experience is required (software/hardware). Experience with indirect or service spend categories. Looking for sourcing, purchasing, or category management experience. Consultants typically will become FTEs after 6 months. Expected conversion salary ~$80K. Responsibilities Manage routine purchasing activities with growing independence, including processing purchase orders, vendor communications, and order tracking. Lead special projects focused on contract consolidations, vendor evaluations, and procurement process optimization under the Procurement Manager's direction. Communicate with vendors to obtain quotes, clarify terms, track order status, and resolve basic issues in a timely and professional manner. Support contract and renewal tracking, monitor key dates and milestones, and elevate risks or issues that require management attention. Perform spend analysis and cost comparisons across vendor proposals, identifying opportunities for savings and value optimization. Collaborate with internal teams (Finance, IT, Operations, Legal) to clarify purchasing requirements, gather specifications, and align procurement decisions with business objectives. Maintain accurate procurement records, document vendor communications, and ensure compliance with all corporate purchasing guidelines, legal regulations, and contract terms. Support vendor relationship management activities and contribute to vendor performance assessments. Assist in building and maintaining vendor master files, contract templates, and procurement process documentation. Qualifications 2-3 years of procurement experience with demonstrated success in purchasing, sourcing, or vendor management. 1+ years of hands-on supplier and vendor management experience. Demonstrated experience administering purchase orders and ensuring compliance with corporate purchasing guidelines and legal regulations. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with ability to interface professionally with vendors and internal stakeholders. Organizational and time management skills with ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and experience with procurement systems or ERP platforms (Netsuite). Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in all procurement activities and documentation. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment. Familiarity with procurement best practices, contract administration fundamentals, and basic cost analysis techniques. Nice to Have Experience with vendor consolidation or rationalization initiatives. Exposure to post-acquisition integration or contract transition projects. Knowledge of cybersecurity or industrial control systems (ICS/OT) procurement. Experience with vendor management systems (VMS) or contract management platforms. Background in managing complex vendor agreements or negotiating terms. Familiarity with procurement compliance frameworks (e.g., vendor compliance audits, risk assessments). #J-18808-Ljbffr