Strategic Sourcing Lead: Cost & Supplier Optimization

Position Summary The Strategic Sourcing Analyst is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies that support product development, supplier optimization, cost management, and business growth objectives. This position exercises independent judgment and discretion in evaluating suppliers, negotiating commercial terms, analyzing costs, and recommending sourcing decisions that directly impact company profitability and operational performance. Working under general direction, the Strategic Sourcing Analyst partners with Product Development, Packaging, Supply Chain, and Operations leadership to identify sourcing opportunities, manage supplier relationships, drive cost reduction initiatives, and support strategic business decisions related to product sourcing and supplier performance. Key Responsibilities Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management Develop and implement sourcing strategies for new and existing product categories. Evaluate and select suppliers based on cost, quality, capacity, service, lead time, and strategic fit. Independently assess supplier capabilities and make recommendations regarding supplier selection, allocation, and rationalization. Lead supplier negotiations involving pricing, commercial terms, lead times, and service agreements within established authority levels. Identify and implement supplier consolidation opportunities that improve efficiency and reduce total cost of ownership. Monitor supplier performance and determine appropriate corrective actions when performance standards are not met. Cost Analysis & Business Decision Support Analyze supplier quotations, cost structures, market conditions, and sourcing alternatives to support business decisions. Identify, recommend, and implement cost reduction initiatives that contribute to annual savings objectives. Evaluate raw material trends, market dynamics, and industry developments to proactively mitigate cost risks. Prepare business cases and recommendations for sourcing, supplier, and product-related decisions. Provide management with strategic recommendations regarding sourcing opportunities, risks, and supplier performance. Product Portfolio Optimization Lead SKU rationalization and supplier optimization initiatives across assigned product categories. Analyze product profitability, supplier concentration, and sourcing efficiency to identify improvement opportunities. Recommend sourcing and product portfolio changes that support long-term business objectives. Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to execute approved sourcing and product initiatives. Cross-Functional Leadership Serve as a primary sourcing representative on new product development, packaging, and product change initiatives. Influence project decisions by providing sourcing expertise, cost analysis, and supplier recommendations. Collaborate with internal stakeholders to resolve supplier, product, specification, and packaging issues. Establish priorities and coordinate sourcing activities to ensure timely execution of strategic projects. Supplier Relationship Management Develop and maintain strategic relationships with key suppliers, including manufacturers located throughout Asia, particularly China. Conduct supplier business reviews and evaluate supplier performance against established metrics. Lead supplier improvement initiatives related to quality, cost, service, delivery, and operational performance. Identify and mitigate sourcing risks that could impact product availability, quality, or profitability. Systems, Reporting & Analysis Maintain and analyze supplier, cost, and sourcing data to support decision-making. Develop reports, dashboards, and analyses that provide insights into sourcing performance and cost-saving opportunities. Present sourcing recommendations, project updates, and performance metrics to management and cross-functional teams. Support continuous improvement efforts through data analysis and process optimization initiatives. Qualifications Required Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, International Trade, or related field. 5+ years of progressive sourcing, procurement, supply chain, or supplier management experience. Experience negotiating supplier pricing and commercial agreements. Experience working directly with Asian suppliers, particularly manufacturers in China. Strong analytical and financial acumen with the ability to evaluate cost structures and business impact. Demonstrated ability to exercise independent judgment in evaluating alternatives and making recommendations. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including data analysis and reporting. Strong project management, communication, and stakeholder management skills. Preferred Experience with hardware, building products, or door and window hardware. Experience with SAP or other ERP systems. Knowledge of international sourcing, manufacturing, and global supply chain operations. Experience leading supplier performance improvement and cost reduction initiatives. Key Competencies Strategic Sourcing Supplier Selection & Evaluation Negotiation & Influence Independent Decision-Making Cost Analysis & Profitability Improvement Financial & Business Acumen Risk Assessment & Mitigation Project Leadership Cross-Functional Influence Analytical Problem Solving Process Improvement Relationship Management Location in Redlands, CA 100% in office Salary $75,000 - $100,000 annually #J-18808-Ljbffr