Role Overview
The Procurement Specialist (Category Buyer) provides tactical procurement support for assigned categories and serves as the main link between strategic category plans and execution. This role manages mid-complexity sourcing events, supports contract negotiations, coordinates supplier interactions, and ensures timely, compliant, and cost-effective procurement outcomes. A Procurement Specialist applies intermediate procurement knowledge and experience to deliver value, improve processes, and support stakeholder needs.
Key Responsibilities
Tactical Sourcing & RFx Management
- Execute RFIs, RFPs, and RFQs in alignment with category strategies.
- Develop bid packages, evaluate supplier responses, and manage evaluation processes.
- Negotiate pricing, commercial terms, and conditions for mid-complexity categories.
- Ensure full compliance with procurement policies and regulatory requirements.
Contract Administration
- Draft, review, and execute contracts, renewals, amendments, and terminations.
- Maintain accurate contract documentation and ensure workflow alignment.
- Monitor contract expiration dates and ensure timely updates for audit readiness.
Supplier Coordination
- Serve as the primary contact for suppliers on tactical topics, performance, and issue resolution.
- Support supplier onboarding and ensure compliance with governance standards.
- Monitor supplier performance and elevate concerns to Category Managers.
Stakeholder Collaboration
- Partner with internal stakeholders to define procurement requirements, timelines, and deliverables.
- Provide guidance on procurement processes and ensure effective communication throughout the sourcing lifecycle.
Process & Policy Compliance
- Apply procurement best practices and identify opportunities for process improvement.
- Support cost optimization initiatives within tactical scopes.
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Finance, or related field; or equivalent experience.
Experience
- Bachelor's degree in supply chain, Business, Finance, or related field; or equivalent experience.
- 2-3 years of experience in procurement, sourcing, contract management, or category management.
- Experience leading RFx events and negotiating contracts for mid-complexity categories.
- Proficiency with procurement/ERP systems (e.g., PeopleSoft, SharePoint, eRecords).
Preferred Certifications
- CPSM, CIPS, or similar procurement credentials.
Skills & Competencies
- Intermediate knowledge of procurement methods, inventory practices, and market evaluation techniques.
- Intermediate sourcing strategy development and execution skills.
- Strong negotiation capabilities for pricing, terms, and vendor performance.
- Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office and procurement systems.
- Strong analytical and decision-making skills.
- Effective communication, collaboration, and influence skills.
- Solid organizational and prioritization ability.
- Confident presentation and facilitation skills.
- Ability to meet deadlines, manage time-sensitive tasks, and maintain accuracy.
- Ability to adapt to changing priorities and accept feedback.