Job Description
As a Strategic Sourcing Specialist, you will research, identify, develop, and implement tools, processes, or infrastructures to negotiate the best prices, quality, and services. Your goal is to achieve best practices and secure the lowest global cost sources for assigned commodities.
ResponsibilitiesPrepare Requests for Information (RFI) and Requests for Quote (RFQ), analyze supplier responses and quotes, and lead or facilitate supplier selection and negotiations.Facilitate contract blanket orders and track commodity spending while monitoring process compliance to document savings and process improvements.Communicate progress, barriers, risks, and benefits to appropriate management levels.Ensure that detailed documentation is developed, approved, and retained for continuous improvement initiatives and process improvements by suppliers in assigned commodities.Manage the tracking of market trends such as cost drivers, levers, and competitive situations.Develop methods to systematically gather and report metrics on vendor performance using vendor scorecards.Develop hedging strategies to protect against negative market movements.Serve as an expert on the characteristics, capabilities, and applicability of specialized and highly technical items being procured.Develop economic projections on key products/commodities and services affecting the business.Establish or locate substitutes for emergency situations and second sources for production continuity and outsourcing capabilities.Provide oral and written interpretation of policies and procedures, rules and regulations, revised statutes, and internal guidelines to personnel and suppliers, including ISO requirements.Investigate complaints on behalf of Manufacturing personnel and suppliers, appraise situations objectively, and issue recommendations for solutions or corrective actions.Resolve problems among suppliers and departmental personnel requiring technical assistance to ensure compliance with all terms and conditions of agreements or purchase orders.Implement cost reduction and supplier analysis programs to ensure full use and benefit of Supply Chain Management philosophy.Perform supplier site visits and audits as required.Stay abreast of product information, internal processes, and professional development as required to fulfill duties and responsibilities.Essential SkillsProcurementSupply chainCategory managementStrategic sourcingContract negotiationsSteel and raw metalsVendor management3+ years of experience in contract negotiation3+ years of manufacturing experienceAdditional Skills & QualificationsBachelor's degree in Supply Chain or equivalent experienceAPICS certification (CPIM preferred)Experience with electrical sourcingProject managementPurchase order managementSAP proficiencyBachelor’s degree in Business or Purchasing with 5 years of advanced buying experienceProficient in data entry and PC competency including Microsoft Excel and WordStrong analytical skills to identify procurement trends and understand strategic trends in commoditiesGood communication skills and the ability to build relationships internally and externallySelf-starter with excellent time-management skillsWork Environment
The position offers a hybrid work schedule, with 2-3 days onsite in a flexible and fun work culture featuring potlucks and company events.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $80000.00 - $95000.00/yr.
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
Workplace Type
This is a hybrid position in Madison,WI.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Aug 15, 2025.
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\n\nAbout Aston Carter:\n
Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® double diamond winner for both client and talent service.
\n\nThe company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
\nIf you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com for other accommodation options.
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