Senior Sourcing Specialist — Category Manager

Job Profile Summary

The senior sourcing specialist/category manager is responsible for the strategic sourcing, negotiation and supplier strategy coordination within the university's procurement department. This role reports to the director, procurement and prepares and leads negotiations with vendors/suppliers to get the best value for CMU while managing relationships with vendors and suppliers. The position regularly interacts with internal CMU buyers as well as external contacts. The senior category manager will regularly conduct supplier business reviews and may manage a team of procurement specialists. The position will have input into procurement teams performance evaluations and the annual performance review process. Key responsibilities include:

• Defining, developing and implementing a sourcing process that delivers the right level of service and outcomes through planning, defining business needs, assessing market, defining strategy, execution, supplier selection and contracting.
• Ensuring all contract obligations are fulfilled, risks are mitigated and contracts remain valid throughout their life cycle. Holds CMU buyers and suppliers accountable for their actions pursuant to CMU policies, procedures and processes.
• Advising departmental campus buyers on procurement policies and procedures. Regularly analyzing internal policies, procedures and processes and recommend updates as needed, as part of continuous improvement effort.
• Conducting research and analyzing the marketplace, maintaining working knowledge of business trends including industry issues, cost drivers, global pricing, market conditions and economic indicators. Identifying new and/or alternate sources of supply. Regularly performs supplier business reviews and conduct complex financial and cost analysis as needed.
• Coaching and mentoring junior level procurement specialists and providing input into the performance review process.

Training and Development Opportunities

Senior Sourcing Specialists are encouraged to explore the relevant resources provided by our learning partners.

Communication

Computers/Software

Data Analysis

Financial Skills

Negotiating

Project Management

Relationship Building

Risk Management

Strategic Sourcing

Supply Chain

Time Management