Strategic Operations Procurement Manager

QTS Data Centers•Atlanta, GA

About The Position

The Strategic Operations Procurement Manager leads sourcing and procurement initiatives that enable efficient customer fit‑outs for new and existing data centers. This role develops category strategies, negotiates competitive programs, and manages supplier relationships. The Manager is responsible for the end‑to-end procurement process, providing oversight of PO management, supplier accountability, and quality assurance. They ensure all OFCI equipment and services are procured, tracked, and delivered on schedule to support project timelines. This role works closely with internal stakeholders and leadership to align procurement efforts with business objectives and support operational excellence.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Procurement, Supply-Chain, or Engineering or related field or equivalent professional experience.
Five or more years of relevant experience in Sourcing / Procurement / Supply-Chain.
Skilled in building strong relationships with key stakeholders
Experience in managing and leading change initiatives
Experience developing long range sourcing plans to meet internal customer requirements, reduce total costs, and optimize value from suppliers

Nice To Haves

8 or more years direct experience in global supply chain management, project management, strategic sourcing, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, negotiations, and vendor management in variety of categories
Data center or critical infrastructure industry experience including Facility Management, Critical Electrical and Mechanical Equipment, Construction Design and Construction, and Professional Services
MBA or master's degree in supply chain
Strategic thinker with a focus on outcomes.
Ability to resolve conflicts and solve problems.
Skilled in business relationship management
Moves fast to address issues and remove blockers
Strong planning and decision‑making capabilities.
Exhibit excellent interpersonal skills with all levels of the organization.
Highly organized, with strong prioritization and multitasking skills
Adapts quickly in fast‑paced environments
Self-motivated and goal driven.

Responsibilities

Manage and execute the end-to-end sourcing process for the Development TFO team's capital equipment and services projects, applying rigorous project management and attention to detail to ensure timely delivery and quick resolution of any issues.
Develop RFP packages and lead competitive sourcing events to secure solutions that meet customer needs, align with technical specifications, and effectively manage project risks.
Continuously identify and implement strategies that enhance procurement performance, accelerate speed to market, elevate quality, and address emerging challenges.
Ensure QTS policies and processes are followed and continuously improve processes and systems to drive best-in-class procurement performance.
Evaluate emerging critical‑infrastructure technologies to ensure QTS maintains an optimal balance of cost, availability, reliability, and efficiency.
Lead recurring procurement status meetings and deliver timely OFCI procurement, cost, and schedule updates to support project planning.
Drive value and cost reduction by analyzing supplier, industry, and market data to establish baseline pricing, applying TCO principles, and supporting commercial negotiations and competitive sourcing decisions.
Maintain and strengthen day-to-day supplier relationships, act as the lead point of contact for all commercial issues, escalations, and lead quarterly business reviews.
Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders and subject matter experts to define category requirements and specifications, ensuring cooperation and support across development, construction services, and equipment/material projects.
Support the expansion of the approved vendor list by identifying qualified suppliers and partnering with internal teams to onboard high‑value, reliable vendors.
Protect QTS by assessing supplier compliance and risk exposure and partnering with the contracting team to ensure appropriate safeguards are reflected in executed agreements.
Address and resolve technical and commercial challenges by collaborating with subject matter experts and escalating when appropriate to ensure effective outcomes.