Purchasing Specialist

Purchasing Specialist The Purchasing Specialist leads strategic sourcing initiatives, negotiates high-value supplier agreements, and drives cost reduction and supply chain optimization across key commodities. This role provides analytical leadership, supports financial objectives, and mentors purchasing team members. Key Responsibilities: Cultural Representation: Uphold and promote the values and culture of Spike Electric Controls, fostering accountability, continuous improvement, and professional development. Commodity Ownership: Develop and execute sourcing strategies for key commodities to improve cost, lead time, supplier performance, and supply continuity. Cost Reduction Initiatives: Identify and lead cost savings opportunities, including price negotiations, supplier consolidation, and alternative sourcing. Strategic Supplier Relationships: Evaluate, qualify, and develop supplier partnerships that strengthen cost competitiveness, supply continuity, and long-term supplier performance. Supplier Performance Management: Develop, implement, and manage supplier scorecards to evaluate delivery, quality, responsiveness, pricing, and overall supplier effectiveness. High Value Negotiation: Negotiate complex contracts, long-term agreements, and strategic supplier partnerships. Order Management: Prepare purchase orders, track shipments, ensure timely delivery of goods, and proactively address risks to prevent production delays. Cross-Functional Coordination: Work closely with sales, project management, warehouse, production, and accounting to ensure accurate demand planning, material flow, and billing. Market Intelligence: Monitor market trends, pricing movement, supplier capacity, and supply risks to guide sourcing strategy and cost reduction efforts. Compliance: Ensure all procurement activities adhere to company policies, budgets, and legal requirements. Financial and Purchasing Analytics: Lead ROI analysis, PPV tracking, and working capital optimization efforts, including inventory turns, supplier performance trends, and lead time reduction. Risk Management: Identify supply chain risks and implement mitigation strategies. Problem Resolution: Address and resolve issues related to quality, delivery, pricing from suppliers, and invoice discrepancies. Documentation: Maintain accurate sourcing records, supplier agreements, savings documentation, and performance reporting. Team Development: Mentor and support Purchasing Agents and Expeditors in skill development and performance improvement. Qualifications: 3-5+ years of experience in procurement and/or supply chain management. Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management/Industrial Distribution preferred. Demonstrated success negotiating pricing, terms, and supplier agreements with measurable cost savings. Experience managing complex or high value commodities and supplier relationships. Advanced negotiation and decision-making skills. Proficiency in ERP systems (Microsoft Dynamics preferred) and Microsoft Excel. Solid understanding of contract terms, pricing structures, and working capital impact. Strong knowledge of supply chain dynamics, including lead times, capacity constraints, and market trends. Ability to identify risks and proactively adjust sourcing strategies to prevent disruptions. Proven ability to mentor and support junior team members. (Purchasing Agents and Expeditors) Strong communication skills with the ability to influence suppliers and internal stakeholders. Experience analyzing price variance (PPV), supplier performance, and total cost of ownership. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks simultaneously. ---