The sourcing specialist/ Senior category manager is responsible for the strategic sourcing, negotiation and supplier strategy coordination within the university’s procurement department. This role will report to the Director of Procurement and with strong stakeholder engagement, will prepare and conduct negotiations with suppliers/vendors to obtain the best value for CMU while managing supplier/vendor relationships. The position will regularly interact with stakeholders, internal CMU buyers, as well as external contacts. This position will have input into procurement teams performance and performance review process.

Carnegie Mellon University’s department of Procurement Services is searching for a Sourcing Specialist/ Senior Category Manager. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who thrives in an interesting and challenging work environment. You will contribute to the department, and the Finance Division, providing strategic sourcing, negotiation and supplier strategy coordination to fulfill customer needs and obtain the best value for CMU while managing supplier/vendor relationships.

Core responsibilities may include:

Establish positive working relationships with stakeholders to anticipate and understand their needs, provide goods/services (quality, timely and cost effective) and demonstrate being a valued business partner.   Define, develop and implement a sourcing strategy / process that delivers the right level of service and outcomes through planning, defining business needs, assessing market, defining strategy, execution, supplier selection, contracting and supplier management.Conduct research and analyze the marketplace, maintain working knowledge of business trends including industry issues, cost drivers, global pricing, market conditions, and economic indicators. Identify new and/or alternate sources of supply.Demonstrated ability to conduct complex financial and cost analysis.Negotiate best price, quality, service levels and delivery terms for purchased products and services. Secures documented and verified cost savings to support university objectives.Ensures all contract obligations are fulfilled, risks are mitigated, issues are resolved and contracts remain valid throughout their life cycle.  Conducts strategic business reviews with preferred suppliers.  Holds CMU buyers and suppliers accountable for their actions pursuant to CMU policies, procedures and processes. Advise departmental campus buyers and stakeholders on procurement policies and procedures. Regularly analyze internal policies, procedures and processes and recommend updates as needed, as part of continuous improvement effort.Demonstrated leadership ability to mentor procurement staff and university colleagues on best practices to strengthen skills, quality and overall performance. Provide input into procurement team’s performance and performance review process.Key Metrics include, but not limited to:  Ethics and compliance, Cost Savings, Customer Satisfaction, Supplier Management. 

You should demonstrate:

Strong attention to detailExcellent customer service and positive stakeholder engagementTeam-oriented approach

Adaptability, excellence, passion and accountability are vital qualities within Procurement Services.  Inclusion, collaboration and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who is able to effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of ethics and integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications: 

Education:  Bachelor’s degree required (in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering or equivalent); Master’s preferredExperience:  Minimum eight to ten years of experience in procurement services with five years of structured strategic sourcing with strong demonstrated results.Certification:  CPSM, preferredProficiency:  MS Office, required; Oracle, preferred

Requirements:

Successful background check

Additional Information:

Sponsorship: Applicants for this position must be currently legally authorized to work for CMU in the United States. CMU will not sponsor or take over the sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity.  Carnegie Mellon is not a qualifying employer for the STEM OPT benefit: only the 12-month OPT may be used to work at Carnegie Mellon.Work Posture: This position is operating on a hybrid schedule, with an on-campus/in-office presence 2 days a week.This is a full-time/ exempt position based in Pittsburgh, PA. 

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits available to eligible employees.

Those employees who are benefits eligible have the opportunity to experience the full spectrum of advantages from comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance to an enticing retirement savings program offering a generous employer contribution. You can also unlock your potential with tuition benefits and take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays. Finally, rest easy knowing you are covered by life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Other perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and so much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits that may be awaiting you, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond just credentials, we consider the role and responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique skills and the diverse perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Procurement and Purchasing

Position Type

Staff – Regular

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Salary

More Information: 

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Click here to view a listing of employee benefits

Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran. 

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