Sourcing Specialist

Description
As a Sourcing Specialist, you will play a critical role in the procurement process, responsible for identifying, evaluating, and negotiating with suppliers to secure the best possible terms for the goods and services essential to our operations. Your focus will be on building strong relationships with suppliers, ensuring quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery to support Group O’s strategic goals.

Department: Sourcing
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Milan, IL (4905)
Reporting To: Beth Davis
Compensation: $20.00 - $23.00 / hour
Description
As a Sourcing Specialist, you will play a critical role in the procurement process, responsible for identifying, evaluating, and negotiating with suppliers to secure the best possible terms for the goods and services essential to our operations. Your focus will be on building strong relationships with suppliers, ensuring quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery to support Group O’s strategic goals.
The ideal candidate is a meticulous, strategic, and ethical professional with a proven record in procurement and supplier management. They are adept at negotiation, have strong analytical capabilities, and excel in building relationships. This individual is adaptable, initiative-taking, and committed to continuous improvement, making them an asset to the procurement team and the organization.
Key Responsibilities
Essential Functions

• Identify potential suppliers through market research, industry networks, and trade shows. Evaluate suppliers based on quality, cost, reliability, and delivery capabilities.
• Negotiate terms and conditions, including pricing, delivery schedules, and payment terms to achieve the best value for the company while maintaining quality standards.
• Manage documentation related to suppliers and quotes and regulatory compliance.
• Monitor supplier performance through key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics. Address and resolve any issues related to quality, delivery, or cost.
• Setup and maintain item information, supplier information, and load and maintain supplier costs in the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system.
• Collaborate closely with internal teams to align sourcing strategies with business needs and objectives.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements in the sourcing and procurement cycle, leveraging industry best practices and innovative solutions.
• Stay informed about market trends, pricing fluctuations, and supply chain innovations to proactively adjust sourcing strategies.

• High school degree

• Associate’s degree

• Related experience in sourcing, procurement, or supply chain management.

• Meticulous mindfulness in reviewing contracts and supplier evaluations.
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Capacity to develop and implement effective sourcing strategies.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions and company needs.
• Commitment to ethical sourcing practices and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Basic user abilities in Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to learn and work with Enterprise Resource Management (ERP) software.
• Strong customer service, organization, and negotiation skills
• Excellent math skills

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical and Dependent Care)
• 401(k) Plan with Company Match
• Generous Paid Time Off
• 10.5 Paid Holidays
• Career Development Opportunities