About the position
The IT Procurement Specialist is responsible for purchasing IT hardware and network equipment, including computers and switches. This role involves negotiating agreements and requires a bachelor's degree, although an associate degree may be considered. The ideal candidate will have telecom and IT networking experience, with at least 5 years in the IT field, and strong negotiating skills. Experience in large IT companies such as Cisco, Verizon, or Dell is preferred. The position is a 9-month contract based in North Chicago, IL, with a pay rate of $44.52 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.
Responsibilities
- Support PO conversion - non transactional and decisive negotiations.
- Manage PO approvals - up to $1,000,000.
- Educate on existing solutions and enable performance and tech tools development.
- Support Ops issues and invoice error resolution.
- Solve complex problems.
- Manage PO change and evaluate the cause for change.
- Enable supplier integration and KPIs.
- Drive value and lead savings outcomes.
- Collaborate with functions.
- Develop bids and proposal formats.
- Lead complex RFPs and small projects.
- Provide advice/direction in primary areas of expertise.
- Communicate and educate appropriate departments to provide supporting documentation for purchases.
- Develop and lead agreed purchasing strategies for category.
- Seek, develop and establish business relationships with diverse suppliers.
- Meet regularly with divisional customers and lead functions to ensure superior customer satisfaction and continuous improvement.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree plus 5+ years of experience in procurement and/or deep category experience.
- Experience in IT Procurement space, preferably in Telecom and IT Networking.
- Experience managing and engaging with senior stakeholders.
- Strong influence, project management, change management, and negotiating skills.
- Excellent people skills and problem-solving skills.
- Proficient in the use of spreadsheet programs.
- Strong communication skills (written and verbal).
- Strong contracting skills with reviewing and redlining contracts.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience managing and negotiating with Tier-1 Telecom and Global Network Suppliers.
- Experience using SAP Ariba software.
- Good organizational skills, including program/project management governance.
- Global experience and knowledge of global markets.
- Relevant business process knowledge related to procurement and category management.
- Extensive knowledge of category technologies and products.
- Experience leading teams, both with direct staff and indirect project teams.
- Finance experience including Financial Benchmarking, Spend Management, Savings Tracking, or Cost Breakdowns.
