Sourcing Specialist (Birmingham)

POSITION SUMMARY

We are seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented Sourcing Specialist to provide support to the Supply Chain team’s Sourcing and Procurement activities. This position will be responsible for identifying and evaluating new suppliers and products as well as ongoing procurement activities for some established suppliers. Analysis of market trends and maintenance of supplier database will be critical to the success of this role in sourcing high-quality, cost-effective ingredients for the Marx Brothers organization.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on problem-solver who can source products globally and work cross-functionally with multiple teams, including Quality Assurance, Accounting, and Innovation.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

· Identifies potential suppliers through market research and evaluation, considering factors such as cost, quality, reliability, and delivery capabilities.

· Maintains accurate information on current and new suppliers to ensure supply while mitigating risk.

· Assesses supplier performance against key performance indicators to optimize the supply chain.

· Negotiates with suppliers to secure favorable terms, pricing, and contracts while ensuring alignment with organizational goals.

· Develops and maintains strong relationships with key suppliers, by monitoring their performance, and implementing strategies to address any issues or improvements.

· Analyzes supplier proposals, pricing structures, and total cost to make informed sourcing decisions.

· Research industry trends, market conditions, and emerging technologies to make informed sourcing recommendations.

· Collaborates with cross-functional teams to develop and implement sourcing strategies that align with organizational objectives.

· Works with suppliers to ensure products or services meet established quality standards and specifications.

· Provides studies and analysis regarding the areas of their responsibilities for Director of Supply Chain and Supply Planner/Buyer.

· Identifies potential savings projects by analyzing category spending and market analysis to deliver improved products and lower costs to the organization through negotiations, supplier management, strategic sourcing, category management, and total cost principles.

· Builds and leverages relationships and networks across the organization.

· Evaluates feasibility of manufacturing or buying new products.

· Support ECN and New Product processes from a procurement standpoint.

· Develop understanding of and utilize MRP system for forecasting, tracking, and reporting of materials.

· Conducts all responsibilities in a manner that complies with company guidelines, ISM Supply Chain Ethics Standards, and government regulations.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

· Bachelor’s degree preferred: Bachelor’s Degree with Major in Business or Supply Chain.

· Experience in Supply Chain (Procurement, Sourcing, Commodity Planning): 2 years.

· Experience in global sourcing; Food and Beverage experience is a major plus.

· Proficiency in Office (especially Excel), ERP systems, and other sourcing and analytical tools.

ATTRIBUTES & CAPABILITIES

· Strong critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills are crucial.

· Ability to manage shifting priorities while completing objectives is critical.

· High-energy driver of results; action-oriented and accountable.

· Self-starter with curiosity to develop expertise in products and processes.

· Work environment is primarily in-office with minimal travel expected.