Category Sourcing Specialist Job

About the position

We are seeking a motivated individual to join our Indirect Procurement team based out of our Gaston, SC facility. The ideal candidate for the Category Sourcing Specialist position will be results driven, motivated by challenges, and have excellent contracting, negotiation, communication, organization, analytical, research, and interpersonal skills. The primary function of this role is the acquisition of Materials and Services for assigned Alpek Polyester sites and/or categories for continuous operation while providing insights and strategies for cost optimization and savings year over year.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a category approach to implement cost strategies for the competitive acquisition of all materials and services required for the effective operation of assigned AP USA Site(s) and category(ies).
• Manage and optimize master database and procurement processes for assigned site(s) and category(ies) while effectively implementing a contract management strategy to bundle and consolidate volumes, enhance our negotiating power in key categories and drive policy improvements.
• Conduct frequent market-specific assessments of vendors and pricing structures for each of the key categories while assessing, mitigating and managing risk.
• Analyze and assess category(ies) and vendor(s) performance to develop improvement plans.
• Develop relationships with vendors to enhance cost competitiveness and performance.
• Continuously monitor categories' spend to drive cost reduction strategies and implement agreements as needed.
• Perform Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Proficient level of Microsoft office tools and data analytics via Excel, BI analytics or equivalent, required.
• Proficiency with SAP or ERP software equivalent, preferred.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work effectively in a diverse, fast-paced, challenging, and cross-functional team environment.
• Ability to travel up to our different US sites, as needed.

Nice-to-haves

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, marketing, industrial engineering or a related field, required.
• Professional certification in Procurement or Supply Chain Management, preferred.
• Minimum 2- 4 years of experience in sourcing approach of Materials and Services categories.
• Proficient in data analytics and market research, with the ability to translate insights into actionable strategies.
• Excellent negotiation skills, experience in managing vendor relationships to optimize product offerings.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively.