Contracts & Sourcing Specialist

Role Overview The Sourcing Specialist III leads end-to-end sourcing initiatives and supplier strategy across 1-5 assigned categories. This role manages competitive sourcing events, analyzes supplier markets, and delivers measurable improvements in cost, risk mitigation, and supplier performance. The position operates with a high degree of independence and collaborates cross-functionally to translate business requirements into scalable, contract-ready supplier solutions. Key Responsibilities Category & Supplier Strategy Own sourcing strategy for 1-5 procurement categories, including demand assessment, market research, sourcing approach, and supplier performance evaluation. Develop category strategies that balance cost optimization, risk mitigation, capacity, and service quality. Monitor supplier market trends, capacity constraints, and potential risk signals; develop mitigation strategies where necessary. Strategic Sourcing Execution Lead end-to-end competitive sourcing events, including: RFI (Request for Information): Market research and supplier capability assessment RFP (Request for Proposal): Evaluation of supplier solutions, commercial models, and service delivery approaches RFQ (Request for Quotation): Pricing and specification-based quote analysis Sourcing Documentation & Analysis Develop sourcing documentation including: Scopes of Work (SOW) Requirements documentation Bid instructions Evaluation criteria Supplier recommendation summaries Additional responsibilities include: Building should-cost models and pricing benchmarks to evaluate supplier proposals Performing commercial and total cost analysis, including risk, service levels, lead times, and contractual terms Supplier Selection & Negotiation Facilitate structured supplier evaluations using scorecards, stakeholder reviews, and decision frameworks Lead negotiation planning and support commercial negotiations with suppliers Prepare and present award recommendations and decision materials for stakeholder governance Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with Legal/Contracts, Finance, Operations, and business stakeholders to finalize agreements and ensure successful supplier onboarding Support contracting, supplier implementation, and operational handoff Performance & Reporting Track and report sourcing outcomes including: Cost savings Cost avoidance Supplier performance metrics Cycle time improvements Risk mitigation outcomes Manage multiple sourcing initiatives simultaneously while maintaining clear documentation and timelines. Required Qualifications 6-8 years of experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, supplier management, or category management Demonstrated experience managing RFIs, RFPs, and RFQs and delivering data-driven supplier recommendations Strong commercial capabilities including: Negotiation support Bid analysis Total cost modeling Business case development Proven ability to work independently and manage competing priorities Strong stakeholder management and communication skills, including presenting sourcing strategies and recommendations Proficiency with procurement tools and advanced Excel/Google Sheets, including analysis of large datasets and vendor proposals Preferred Qualifications Experience working in fast-paced, complex sourcing environments such as technology, infrastructure, operations, facilities, or data center supply chains Familiarity with supplier risk management and performance management frameworks Experience supporting large global organizations or enterprise procurement teams