Procurement Specialist

Job Description

The Strategic Procurement Specialist is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies, leading competitive procurement processes, and managing supplier relationships to ensure cost-effective, reliable supply of goods and services. This role blends strategic planning with hands-on procurement execution, including RFP management, contract negotiation, cost optimization, and supplier performance management.

Operating within the Procurement organization, this role collaborates cross-functionally with Operations, Finance, Legal, and other stakeholders to align procurement activities with business objectives, mitigate risk, and drive continuous improvement in supply chain performance.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Execution

• Develop and implement travel and real estate sourcing strategies to support business objectives and ensure continuity of supply.
• Lead end-to-end competitive bidding processes including scope development, supplier engagement, bid evaluation, and award recommendation.
• Conduct market analysis, supplier benchmarking, and risk assessments to inform sourcing strategies and decisions.
• Identify and execute cost reduction initiatives through supplier consolidation, demand management, and negotiation strategies.

Supplier & Contract Management

• Negotiate commercial terms, pricing structures, and contracts to optimize value while minimizing operational, legal, and financial risks.
• Partner with Legal to review and finalize contractual agreements.
• Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships across regions, acting as a primary point of contact for performance, issue resolution, and continuous improvement.
• Evaluate and manage supplier performance using defined KPIs (cost, quality, delivery, responsiveness).

Cost Analysis & Performance Optimization

• Perform detailed spend analysis, cost modeling, and trend analysis using historical data and market insights.
• Track procurement metrics, savings realization, and supplier performance outcomes.
• Develop business cases and cost-benefit analyses to support sourcing initiatives and strategic decisions.
• Recommend and implement process improvements to enhance procurement efficiency and effectiveness.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with Operations, Finance, and Legal teams to ensure procurement requirements are clearly defined and executed.
• Partner with Finance and Accounts Payable on payment terms, and invoice resolution.
• Communicate sourcing strategies, supplier updates, and pricing changes to internal stakeholders.
• Support leadership with procurement metrics, strategic recommendations, and special projects as required.
• Collaborate with Latin America team to identify and execute synergies across regions.

Project Management & Continuous Improvement

• Manage multiple sourcing projects simultaneously while meeting timelines and delivering measurable results.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement aligned with procurement KPIs and organizational goals.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or related field (or equivalent) professional experience.
• 5+ years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, or supply chain roles. Preferred experience in a corporate environment with experience managing travel, real estate, fleet, and/or lab consumables.
• Proven track record in leading RFP processes, negotiating contracts, and delivering cost savings.

Technical Skills & Knowledge

• Strong understanding of procurement processes, contract management, and sourcing best practices.
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., JD Edwards or similar platforms).
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (data analysis, pivot tables, cost models) and Office Suite.
• Ability to analyze spend data, supplier performance metrics, and market trends.

Core Competencies

• Negotiation: Strong ability to secure favorable commercial and contractual terms.
• Analytical Thinking: Skilled in data-driven decision-making and cost optimization.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal skills with the ability to influence stakeholders.
• Project Management: Effective at prioritizing and managing multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Collaboration: Ability to work cross-functionally with internal teams and external suppliers.
• Problem Solving: Proactive in identifying risks, resolving issues, and implementing solutions.