Senior Strategic Sourcing Specialist

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas•Topeka, KS

1d•$85,600 - $107,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Sourcing Specialist is an experienced professional responsible for mentoring strategic sourcing specialists and supporting strategic sourcing and procurement objectives and will report to the Manager, Strategic Sourcing and Procurement. This role leverages advanced expertise in procurement processes, supplier management, and contract negotiations to guide the team in executing sourcing strategies effectively. The Senior Sourcing Specialist actively contributes to supplier selection, contract negotiation, and supplier relationship management, ensuring SPVM at BCBSKS is the preferred partner for internal and external business partners. Additionally, this role analyzes procurement data, identifies cost-saving opportunities, ensures compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements, and collaborates with cross-functional teams to develop sourcing strategies that optimize value, quality, and service from suppliers.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required
Minimum 6 years' experience in procurement, vendor management, and/or supply chain management, with direct involvement in strategic sourcing management required
Advanced experience leading end-to-end RF(x) processes, including development, evaluation, and strategic selection decisions.
Strong project management skills with the ability to handle multiple complex projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
Proven ability to collaborate and positively influence key stakeholders at all levels to drive successful outcomes.
Skilled in building and maintaining effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Advanced in information navigation, research, critical thinking, and presenting findings in a clear and actionable manner.
Digital dexterity to quickly adapt to new technologies, tools, and platforms to enhance efficiency.
In-depth knowledge of Supplier, Procurement, Vendor, and Management (SPVM) protocols, policies, and procedures to ensure compliance and accuracy.
Ability to read, interpret, and negotiate legal contracting language, including redlining terms and conditions.
Advanced knowledge of sourcing and procurement tools and protocols, including contract lifecycle management tools.
Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
Ability to work independently and lead projects in a cross-functional team environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to analyze data, draw conclusions, and use insights for decision-making.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree or equivalent in supply chain management, Operations Management, Business, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field preferred
In lieu of degree, an additional 3 years of relevant experience required
Previous experience in project management and process improvement preferred
Previous experience with IT procurement preferred
Previous experience identifying and implementing lean principles into workflows preferred
Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity preferred
Certified Professional in Supply Management preferred

Responsibilities

Mentor and coach entry- and mid-level sourcing team members, promoting continuous learning and skills development.
Develop and negotiate contracts with new suppliers and/or renegotiate existing contracts to accomplish the lowest total system cost and saving objectives.
Analyze industry trends and evolving technology to proactively identify issues, mitigate supplier and contractual risk, protect the continuity of supply, and leverage emerging opportunities.
Optimize external spending through early involvement in the sourcing life cycle developed through a strong partnership with business stakeholders.
Responsible for maintaining strategic sourcing relationships and developing strong partnerships.
Responsible for creating cost estimates and expenditure forecasts related to procurement.
Evaluate sourcing procedures, present improvement strategies to leadership, and implement innovative solutions.
Play a key role in the success of the strategic sourcing management goals and implement action items to ensure those goals are achieved.
Lead the RFx process, including bid development, proposal evaluation, supplier selection, and contract negotiation to ensure efficient and cost-effective sourcing strategies.
Evaluate sourcing strategies, cost structures, and associated business risks, proposing and implementing improvements to drive long-term value, efficiency, and informed decision-making.
Demonstrate strong business judgement, integrity, financial acumen, and project management skills.
Have experience in negotiating complex contracts/agreements, vendor management skills and demonstrated expertise within key areas, such as IT services (professional services/labor), IT infrastructure, IT, and enterprise applications, and/or indirect spend.
Manage all aspects of purchase order administration, submitting notices & change orders, new supplier onboarding, and closing out contracts.