Associate Procurement Specialist – Dairy

Responsibilities

• Responsible for coordinating incoming dairy settlements to ensure information is accurate and retained within the appropriate system.
• Onboarding suppliers in Ariba (new and existing).
• Working closely with sourcing managers on key initiatives.
• Uploading all annual contracts into the legal system.
• Developing insightful KPIs related to the job.
• Ensure timely and accurate settlement of all incoming loads by coordinating daily with vendors.
• Maintain and improve systems related to vendor settlements and invoices to promote a best-in-class dairy settlement/invoicing process.
• Collaborate with Sourcing Managers to perform category planning and annual bid activities.
• Support spot load purchases each week by ensuring that all ordered loads are being processed for payment.
• Partner with Sourcing Managers on cost management processes such as category spend analysis, total cost of ownership assessments.
• Facilitate and work closely with sourcing managers on various tactical needs.
• Assist in driving continuous improvement to drive efficiencies and cost savings by ensuring that the right suppliers are onboard.
• Learn the role of a Procurement Specialist to provide back-up coverage.

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• 1-3 years professional experience in purchasing or supply chain environment or related field preferred with degree. 2-4 years’ experience without.
• Demonstrates critical thinking.
• Familiarity with procurement and business administration.
• Experience with manufacturing is a plus.
• Microsoft Office with advanced excel skills.
• Good communication skills (both oral and written) and presentation skills.
• Works well with others even during times of disagreement or pressure.
• Problem solving, quantitative skills and decision-making talent.
• Must be willing and able to work across functions and different levels of the organization.
• Must have a “doesn’t take no for an answer” mindset.
• Team player - willing to go above and beyond for the success of the company even if it means taking on extra responsibility from time to time.
• Must have the ability to work through change and maintain a constructive and positive attitude.
• Ability to be a strategic and forward thinker.
• Detail oriented.
• Self‑motivated - must be able to follow‑up and maintain timelines while actively nurturing supplier relationships.
• Prepare and deliver presentations, reporting, graphs.
• Awareness and understanding of supply chain and the interrelationship between procurement and the business preferred.