Strategic Sourcing Specialist

**Core Responsibilities** - Support development and execution of sourcing strategies for key categories (e.g., metals, motors, bearings, drives) - Analyze supplier performance and identify improvement opportunities - Participate in supplier segmentation (Preferred, Approved, Conditional, Exit) - Assist with supplier development initiatives and corrective action follow-up - Conduct or support supplier audits and improvement plans - Partner with engineering and operations on supplier-related projects and NPD efforts - Help improve OTIF (On-Time In-Full) and reduce supply disruptions - Support issue resolution and supplier escalations - Use ERP systems (Passport, Epicor) to analyze spend, performance, and trends - Contribute to standardizing sourcing practices and processes **Ramp-Up Expectations** ***First 90 Days*** - Learn products, manufacturing processes, and supply chain workflows - Become familiar with ERP systems and sourcing tools - Understand supplier base and key categories - Build cross-functional relationships (operations, quality, engineering, purchasing) - Identify initial supplier performance gaps ***6–12 Months*** - Contribute to category strategy development - Actively support supplier performance improvement efforts - Participate in supplier segmentation and governance processes - Demonstrate improved data-driven decision making - Drive measurable improvements in delivery and performance **Key Capabilities for Success** - Ability to make sound decisions within defined scope - Strong analytical skills; able to work with imperfect data - Effective communication across functions - Ability to influence others without direct authority - Organized and detail-oriented with strong follow-through **Key Challenges** - Working within multiple ERP systems and fragmented data - Supporting a sourcing organization with varying levels of maturity - Limited forecasting and evolving demand planning processes - Navigating incomplete or inconsistent data **Attributes & Behaviors** - Self-motivated and accountable - Comfortable balancing tactical execution with strategic thinking - Curious and eager to learn - Resilient in a changing environment - Collaborative and relationship-focused - Strong problem-solving mindset - Continuous improvement orientation **Required Skills & Experience** - Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience - 3–5+ years of sourcing, procurement, or supply chain experience (manufacturing preferred) - Experience with supplier performance tracking and improvement - Basic negotiation and supplier management skills - Experience using ERP systems and data analysis - Strong analytical and problem-solving ability **Preferred Qualifications** - Experience in industrial or manufacturing environments - Exposure to categories such as metals, motors, castings, or fabricated components - Familiarity with supplier audits and development practices - Knowledge of strategic sourcing or category management concepts - Experience with tools such as Epicor, Passport, or Power BI **Culture Fit** - Demonstrates integrity and accountability - Works collaboratively across teams - Focuses on continuous improvement - Builds strong working relationships - Delivers results while supporting team success **Employee Value Proposition** This role provides an opportunity to build foundational strategic sourcing skills while gaining exposure across operations, engineering, and supply chain. ***You will:*** - Gain hands-on experience in supplier management and sourcing strategy - Develop skills in data analysis, negotiations, and supplier performance improvement - Work cross-functionally and contribute to meaningful business outcomes - Grow into increased responsibility as sourcing capabilities mature This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to advance from tactical procurement into strategic sourcing and make a measurable impact. As a Strategic Sourcing Specialist you will be offered pay of $90,000-$110,000 dependent on experience…