Sourcing Specialist

Overview

Budnick Converting, Inc., headquartered in Columbia, IL (in the St. Louis, MO metropolitan area), is a privately held and female owned corporation. Budnick’s primary focus is specialty converting of adhesive coated tapes and foams. Budnick remains on the leading edge of adhesive tape converting technology; currently utilizing over 70 die-cutting, slitting, laminating, printing (including flexographic printing), label making and spooling machines to convert materials into labor saving customized parts.

For more information on Budnick, please visit our website at

POSITION

PURPOSE:

A Sourcing Specialist is responsible for identifying and evaluating potential suppliers to ensure the organization receives the best products or services at the most competitive prices. This role involves conducting market research, analyzing data, assessing supplier capabilities, and negotiating terms to establish favorable purchasing agreements. The Sourcing Specialist plays a critical role in building and maintaining strong supplier relationships while managing risks and opportunities associated with the sourcing process.

Skills: Strong communication and negotiation skills and experience managing supplier relationships. Knowledge of supply chain management principles & practices. Interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate with various stakeholders. Working competency with purchasing ERP software and tools. Have a strong customer satisfaction focus.

Ability: Excellent analytical skills with the ability to assess complex data and market trends. Ability to manage multiple sourcing projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Conduct business in a professional, positive and courteous manner. Listen effectively, respond clearly, write legibly and read a variety of written orders/instructions. Adapt to interruptions, changes, emergencies, repetition and pressure without losing effectiveness and composure.

Quickly grasp new concepts, approaches or systems. Employ resourcefulness when problem solving to meet customer needs.

Education: High School diploma or equivalent required. Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, or related field preferred.

Experience: 3-5 years of experience in materials sourcing, procurement or supply chain management preferred.

Hours: 8:00am – 4:30pm (in-office position)

FLSA Class: Non-Exempt

Reports To: Purchasing & Inventory Manager

Salary: $25-30/hr., paid bi-weekly, depending on experience.

Essential Functions:

• Review Request for Quotation (RFQ) from customers and analyze specifications to estimate material volume requirements.
• Select the correct material format based on volume and application, ensuring alignment with blueprint or customer requirements.
• Collaborate with vendors when necessary to provide an accurate cost estimation for the required materials.

Sourcing Raw Materials:

• Source raw materials, negotiate favorable pricing, freight terms, and minimum order requirements with suppliers.
• Ensure sourcing decisions align with the organization's goals and cost-saving initiatives.
• Analyze supplier proposals and pricing structures, considering factors such as total cost of ownership, lead times, and overall supply chain impact.
• Make informed decisions on sourcing options that optimize cost efficiency without compromising quality.
• Seek opportunities for value creation through innovative sourcing methods, alternative suppliers, and improved sourcing processes.

ERP System Updates:

• Responsible for entering new raw material costs into the ERP system when cost-saving opportunities arise.
• Setup of new purchased parts in the ERP system
• Adjust raw material costs in the ERP system, with purchasing and inventory manager approval, ensuring accurate tracking of materials and costs.

Industry Trends and Market Research:

• Stay updated on industry trends, market conditions, and emerging technologies to make informed sourcing recommendations.
• Attend relevant trade shows (such as GFA and Foam Expo) to gather insights and identify new suppliers, products, and opportunities.

Supplier Identification and Management:

• Collaborate with the Purchasing…