Job Title: Strategic Sourcing Specialist (EMEA) Location: Cheshire UK Salary: £80K - £100K + Bonus + Benefits Hrs: 08:30 - 17:00hrs (flexibility required) Contract: Permanent Company and Role Our client is a highly reputable $1.6B Global Company, specialising in developing, producing, and distributing a broad range of specialty Chemicals, Minerals & Niche Products for markets including Construction, Agriculture, Steel, Oil & Gas industries. We are seeking a Strategic Sourcing Specialist (EMEA) to manage a segment of the company's end-to-end sourcing operations, with annual purchasing requirements of $20M. You will analyse spend, negotiate contracts, and developing long-term partnerships with suppliers. This role demands expertise in Material Requirements Planning (MRP), financial analysis, and supply chain optimisation in a fast-paced, global manufacturing environment. This critical role supports growth objectives by fostering strategic supplier relationships, ensuring material quality, and enhancing supply chain/logistics efficiency. Key Responsibilities of the Strategic Sourcing Specialist;
* S&OP Coordination: Collaborate in the Sales & Operations Planning process to ensure the supply of critical materials aligns with plant requirements.
* Contract Negotiations: Lead supply contract negotiations and manage pricing/terms adjustments as needed.
* Sourcing Strategies: Develop and implement sourcing and category management strategies focusing on value, capacity, and contingency planning.
* Cost Analysis: Monitor cost drivers and use statistical analysis to inform sourcing decisions/strategies.
* Quality Enforcement: Ensure world class product quality through material standards, KPIs, and issue resolution processes.
* Supplier Development: Identify and qualify new suppliers to mitigate risk and support growth.
* New Product Development Support: Partner with R&D to qualify components/materials for new products.
* Supply Chain Cost Optimization: Analyse costs and recommend improvements to enhance performance and profitability.
* Logistics Coordination: Plan and coordinate long-lead time overseas orders and manage import/export freight logistics.
* Supplier Relationship Management: Act as the primary contact for supplier relationships and oversee the Supplier Quality Management program.
* ISO Compliance: Support ISO management systems (ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, ISO 45001:2018) with a focus on supplier control and material qualification.
As the Strategic Sourcing Specialist, you will have the following skills & qualifications;
* Education: Degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or related field.
* Experience: Minimum 5 years of experience in supply chain management, preferably in an international, multi-site manufacturing business.
* Knowledge : Any experience with Steel, Mining, Refractories or Chemical products would be advantageous.
* ERP Systems: Proficiency in ERP environments, with Oracle E-Business Suite experience preferred.
* Technical Expertise: Strong MRP knowledge and experience in Procure-to-Pay processes in a Manufacturing environment.
* Analytical Skills: Financial acumen with experience in cost analysis and reporting.
* Microsoft Office: Advanced proficiency in Word and Excel.
* Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to lead cross-functional teams.
* Problem-Solving: Strong organisational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.