Southern States, LLC
Sourcing Specialist I
Procurement - Hampton, GA - Full Time
Job Summary:
The Sourcing Specialist I primary functions are Cost Control, new Vendor development and management of existing critical or high-volume vendors. They work closely with the Critical Supply Team to find alternative parts and suppliers and support them in managing open orders. The Sourcing Specialist I works closely with the Sourcing Manager to initiate cost reductions ideas by developing alternative vendors, materials or minor changes to part designs which may reduce cost. A primary focus of the job is forecasting and analyzing open orders for rescheduling to ensure parts are delivered in time to fulfill production requirements
Essential Responsibilities:
Other Responsibilities & Requirements:
Minimum Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:
The Sourcing Specialist I primary functions are Cost Control, new Vendor development and management of existing critical or high-volume vendors. They work closely with the Critical Supply Team to find alternative parts and suppliers and support them in managing open orders. The Sourcing Specialist I works closely with the Sourcing Manager to initiate cost reductions ideas by developing alternative vendors, materials or minor changes to part designs which may reduce cost. A primary focus of the job is forecasting and analyzing open orders for rescheduling to ensure parts are delivered in time to fulfill production requirements
Essential Responsibilities:
- Vendor management includes fortifying existing relationships, collaboration & innovation, risk assessment, cost reductions, and selection & onboarding of new vendors.
- Cost control includes RFPs as appropriate, and directly participating in negotiations as needed
- Cost control also includes actively engaging with Division management and the Sourcing Manager with cost reduction ideas.
- Assist the Sourcing Manager in developing new buyers and interns, training them in systems and best practices.
- Assist in developing forecasting models to determine future supply needs and skills needed in the department, as well as performance metrics.
- Other duties as assigned.
Other Responsibilities & Requirements:
- This position requires a strategic mindset where anticipation of future needs and preparing for them is required
- Ability to evaluate changes in the supply chain environment and commodities and their impact on SS and initiating steps to minimize the impact on SS is essential to success.
- Develop strong relationships with critical vendors by meeting with them regularly including site visits.
- Strong leadership skills are required
- Teamwork and good relationships both inside and externally with vendors are required
- Assist the Sourcing Manager as needed to keep the department running smoothly.
Minimum Qualifications:
- A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university; or a combination of education and experience equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree.
- Experience: 5+ years’ prior buying, purchasing, or related experience.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Access.
- Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business documents.
- Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
- Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Access.
- Understanding of applicable computer systems and function-specific software such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software.
- Excellent customer service skills.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from both internal and external customers.
- Good work record, including attendance.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in heavy equipment manufacturing.
- Strong background in blueprint reading and interpretation.
- APICS or CPM certification
- Experience with Microsoft Business Central
