Strategic Sourcing Associate

Aston Carter•Woodinville, WA

6d•$26 - $32•Hybrid

About The Position

The Strategic Sourcing Associate supports key business partners, programs, and vendors by providing comprehensive supplier management and sourcing support. This role focuses on source selection, vendor management initiatives, supplier performance tracking, and strategic sourcing activities that align with broader business objectives. The position offers strong entry-level experience and an opportunity to gain exposure and build a career in procurement and supply chain within a large, established organization.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or a minimum of 2+ years of relevant experience in a related field.
Minimum of 2+ years of procurement and/or supplier management experience.
Solid experience in supplier management, including performance tracking and relationship management.
Strong analytical skills with experience in data analysis to support sourcing decisions and supplier performance evaluation.
Demonstrated negotiation skills with vendors and suppliers.
Knowledge of supply chain management fundamentals and sourcing concepts.
Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize workload, multitask, and adapt to changing priorities.
Experience working effectively in a cross-functional team environment.
Strong written and verbal communication skills suitable for internal stakeholders and external suppliers.
Professional demeanor with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Strong problem-solving abilities with a structured approach to resolving supplier and process issues.
Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Office skills, including the ability to create and manage spreadsheets, presentations, and reports.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Oracle systems, particularly in procurement, sourcing, or vendor management modules.
Vendor management experience, including managing supplier relationships and performance.
Experience communicating directly with vendors and crafting professional business emails and correspondence.
General understanding of supply chain and sourcing processes gained through education or practical experience.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with internal stakeholders and external suppliers.
Interest in developing a career in procurement, sourcing, or supply chain within a large organization.

Responsibilities

Partner with finance, client services, buyer planners, analysts, and sourcing leadership to conduct vendor negotiations and support sourcing strategies.
Assist with supplier performance management by tracking metrics, evaluating results, and ensuring compliance with contractual requirements.
Drive process improvement initiatives focused on improving quality, reducing costs, increasing productivity, and enhancing service levels.
Serve as an escalation point for supplier-related issues and use data and analysis to identify root causes and drive effective solutions.
Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders to understand business requirements and identify supplier-related opportunities.
Monitor industry and supplier trends to help forecast future needs and support proactive sourcing decisions.
Work cross-functionally with various teams to support business goals, profitability, and customer satisfaction.
Track cost savings associated with sourcing initiatives and prepare reporting and analysis for leadership review.
Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure consistent quality, reliable service, and competitive pricing.
Assess supplier processes and controls and recommend improvements to strengthen performance and compliance.
Assist with organizing and supporting supplier fairs and showcases to highlight supplier capabilities and offerings.
Support the execution and administration of non-disclosure agreements and supplier contract reviews.
Utilize Microsoft Office and Oracle tools to analyze data, prepare reports, and manage supplier and sourcing information.
Communicate professionally with vendors, including crafting clear and concise business emails and correspondence.