Sourcing Manager

Universal Orlando•Orlando, FL

About The Position

The Sourcing Manager leads and executes complex and unique purchasing projects, reviewing requisitions for capital and expense items or services, developing supply sources, preparing bid specifications, issuing bid requests, and reviewing quotations. As a specialist in assigned material categories, the role interprets purchasing procedures for departments and vendors and applies category-specific technical knowledge. The manager works with stakeholders and Legal to optimize value for Universal Destinations and Experiences (UDX), and places purchase orders and coordinates deliveries to meet customer requirements and maintain inventory within approved guidelines. The role sources, evaluates, and purchases services, supplies, and equipment based on price, service, quality, and warranty. It collaborates with internal and external business partners on specifications and timelines, prepares bid forms, manages the RFX process, analyzes bids, recommends awards, negotiates terms, establishes contracts, and authorizes purchase orders in accordance with company policies and procedures while considering total cost of ownership. The position may lead or supervise Sourcing Specialists, Associate Sourcing Specialists, and support staff in the future.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required.
At least 3 years of experience in sourcing and procurement of specialized or technical commodities, engineered systems, and professional services.
Advanced MS Excel analytical capabilities, including gathering and interpreting data from multiple sources and identifying economic trends.
Ability to translate analytical information and communicate it effectively in PowerPoint.
Experience with a computerized purchasing system required.
Vast knowledge of suppliers and manufacturers, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Strong communication and negotiation skills.
Good mathematical and analytical skills.
Ability to work in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.
Ability to perform the essential duties satisfactorily, with reasonable accommodation where applicable.
Consistent attendance.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.
Construction experience highly desirable.
Theme park or entertainment-related company experience is a plus.
Skills in supervising or leading the work activities of others may be required.

Responsibilities

Research suppliers for requested items, provide alternatives or substitutions where applicable, and assist internal requesters with requirements.
Review requests in various formats, including technical drawings and schematics, and investigate bidding initiatives for savings.
Establish blanket purchase agreements with vendors, including dollar and contract-duration limits.
Facilitate competitive bidding for requisitions in accordance with company policies; organize and participate in job walks; solicit and evaluate bids; recommend suppliers; negotiate prices; establish contracts; place orders; and arrange deliveries to deadlines and savings goals.
Work with corporate-office team members to optimize deal terms across the enterprise.
Interview sales representatives and research companies to develop supply sources, update records and files, and secure favorable terms for UDX Orlando.
Compile metrics and KPIs for related areas.
Partner with Cost Control to ensure budget compliance and identify procurement cost-saving opportunities.
Lead efforts related to key company initiatives.
Resolve discrepancies between purchase-order prices and prices confirmed by suppliers.
Follow established Environmental, Health & Safety policies, procedures, training, and team-member involvement activities.
Perform other duties as assigned.