Procurement Senior Specialist

Position:
Procurement Senior Specialist Job Description

The Procurement Senior Specialist will be a key contributor to the Indirect Procurement team, responsible for the end-to-end strategic sourcing process, including market analysis, negotiation, contracting, and long‑term supplier relationship management. This role requires an analytical and articulate individual with proven experience sourcing goods and services, ideally within Information Technology (IT) and/or Logistics. The Senior Specialist will drive cost savings, mitigate supply chain risk, and ensure compliance with internal procurement policies.

• Strategic Sourcing & Execution
• Negotiation & Contracting
• Supplier Relationship Management (SRM)
• Stakeholder Collaboration
• Lead the full sourcing lifecycle for assigned categories, primarily within Indirect Procurement (e.g., IT Hardware/Software, Professional Services, Logistics/Transportation, Facilities, Marketing).
• Conduct detailed spend analysis, market research, and competitive bidding (RFx) processes to identify and select best‑value suppliers.
• Develop and execute category strategies that align with business objectives, focusing on cost reduction, quality improvement, and risk mitigation.
• Independently negotiate favorable terms, pricing, and service levels with suppliers.
• Draft, review, and finalize a variety of commercial contracts, statements of work (SOWs), Master Service Agreements in collaboration with legal and internal stakeholders.
• Ensure all contractual agreements comply with organizational standards and regulatory requirements.
• Establish and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with key suppliers to drive performance, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Manage supplier performance through regular business reviews, tracking key performance indicators (KPIs), and ensuring adherence to contractual obligations.
• Address and resolve complex supplier issues, disputes, and performance deficiencies promptly.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to internal business partners (e.g., IT, Operations, Legal, Finance) to understand their needs and align procurement activities accordingly.
• Facilitate effective communication between suppliers and internal stakeholders throughout the sourcing and contracting process.
• Other duties as assigned

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in Procurement, Strategic Sourcing, or Supply Chain Management.
• Proven track record in Indirect Procurement, with strong expertise in
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Finance, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience sourcing in at least one of the following domains:
  Information Technology (IT) or Logistics/Transportation (highly preferred).

Forward Air is an Equal Opportunity Employer.