Job Description
JOB PURPOSE:
The Supply Chain Specialist is responsible for identifying, sourcing, and negotiating the purchase of goods and services from external suppliers to meet operational needs. This includes researching potential vendors, comparing prices, negotiating contracts, and ensuring timely delivery of items that meet quality standards.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Responsible for supply chain and materials management activities including order placement, supplier reduction/evaluation/certification, supplier follow-up, price negotiation and compliance with government procurement regulations
- Research and identify potential suppliers based on quality, price, delivery time, and reliability
- Send RFQs to multiple suppliers to gather price comparisons and product details
- Negotiate purchase agreements with vendors, including pricing, payment terms, delivery schedules, and quality standards
- Generate and issue purchase orders to approved suppliers
- Monitor supplier performance against agreed-upon metrics, address any issues and resolve discrepancies
- Stay updated on market trends, pricing fluctuations, and new supplier options
- Inspect and verify the quality of received goods to ensure compliance with specifications
- Identify opportunities for cost reduction and optimize procurement spending
- Collaborate with inventory teams to maintain appropriate stock levels
- Ensure adherence to company procurement policies and legal regulations
- Work closely with Production Planning to define and implement automated systems to plan and track material flow from customers through Procurement to delivery to support a comprehensive supply chain management strategy
- Ensure all material management policies are consistent with the inventory control objectives of Clarus
- Facilitate supply chain and materials initiatives including common part numbers, supplier managed inventory, consolidated purchasing agreements, supplier reduction and supplier quality certifications
- Support internal or external audit requirements relative to the supply chain functions
- Effectively create and sustain supply chain to deliver material and system cost reduction programs
- Benchmark world-class supplier management systems and implement best practices as appropriate
QUALIFICATIONS:
- 5+ years of demonstrated supply chain experience in a manufacturing environment
- Experience developing and executing supply chain strategies
- Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills with the ability to negotiate favorable terms with suppliers to achieve cost savings
- Experience analyzing data to identify cost-effective sourcing options and make informed decisions
- Able to effectively communicate with internal stakeholders and external suppliers
- Strong Project Management experience managing supply chain projects from initiation to completion
- Knowledge of industry trends and supplier landscape
- Self-motivated, able to work independently with little supervision
- Strong time-management skills with the ability to adhere to deadlines
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Technologically proficient; intermediate to advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word)
- Demonstrated experience with MRP/ERP software, NetSuite Preferred
- B.A./B.S. degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Economics, Finance, or technical field required
- APICS certification preferred, or ability to obtain within 1 year
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