Strategic Sourcing Specialist

Strategic Sourcing Specialist

Location: Pomona, CA
Employment Type: 12 Months
Industry: Electric Utilities / Energy

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Role Overview

The Strategic Procurement Specialist - Direct Materials plays a critical role in advancing the organization's sourcing excellence within the Electric Utilities sector. This position supports category management initiatives and drives value across the supply chain by developing and executing robust sourcing strategies for essential materials.
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The role requires strong analytical capabilities, commercial acumen, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure procurement objectives are achieved in alignment with operational, financial, and regulatory priorities.

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Key Responsibilities

Strategic Sourcing & Category Management

• Support the development and execution of category strategies for direct materials including, but not limited to: Utility poles, Distribution and substation equipment, Wire and cable, Transformers, MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations) supplies, Safety equipment, Chemicals and industrial gases
• Analyze market trends, supplier landscapes, and cost drivers to inform sourcing decisions.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (engineering, operations, finance) to align procurement strategies with business needs.

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Procurement Execution & RFP Management

• Design and execute competitive Request for Proposal (RFP) processes for both short-term and long-term sourcing needs.
• Ensure procurement activities meet key performance metrics: On-time delivery, Quality compliance, Cost optimization
• Develop bid evaluation models and conduct commercial and technical assessments of supplier proposals.

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Supplier Management & Engagement

• Identify, evaluate, and onboard qualified suppliers to build a competitive and resilient supply base.
• Develop supplier engagement strategies to maximize participation and competitiveness in RFP processes.
• Foster strong supplier relationships to enhance performance, innovation, and risk mitigation.

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Negotiation & Contracting

• Lead commercial negotiations to secure optimal pricing, terms, and conditions.
• Ensure contracts align with organizational standards, risk frameworks, and compliance requirements.
• Drive value through total cost of ownership (TCO) optimization and continuous cost improvement initiatives.

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Data Analysis & Reporting

• Perform detailed data analysis using Microsoft Excel (e.g., cost modeling, spend analysis, forecasting).
• Translate complex data into actionable insights and strategic recommendations.
• Develop high-impact presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint to communicate findings to stakeholders and leadership.

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Continuous Improvement & Compliance

• Support procurement process improvements and standardization initiatives.
• Ensure adherence to procurement policies, regulatory requirements, and ethical sourcing standards.
• Contribute to performance tracking and reporting of procurement KPIs.

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Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.

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Experience

• Minimum of 3+ years of experience in: Supply Chain Management, Strategic Sourcing / Procurement, Contract Management

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Core Competencies & Skills

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite : Excel (data analysis, pivot tables, modeling), PowerPoint (executive presentations), Word (documentation and contracts)
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Effective communication and stakeholder management skills
• Strong negotiation and commercial acumen
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

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Preferred Attributes

• Experience in Electric Utilities, Energy, or Infrastructure sectors
• Familiarity with direct material sourcing and technical procurement
• Understanding of supply chain risk management and supplier performance metrics

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Impact of the Role

This position directly contributes to cost efficiency, supply reliability, and operational excellence within the organization by ensuring the strategic sourcing of critical materials that support infrastructure development and energy delivery.

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