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- Tasks: Lead sourcing activities and manage procurement processes for materials and services.
- Company: Join the University of Massachusetts, a leading institution dedicated to education and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work schedule and competitive salary up to $90,000.
- Why this job: Make an impact in procurement while training others and developing essential skills.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and 4-6 years in purchasing or contract management required.
- Other info: Internal candidates only; opportunity to supervise and onboard student interns.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 126000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Senior Strategic Sourcing Specialist role at University of Massachusetts.
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Primary Work Location: 50 Washington Street, Westborough, MA; Hybrid work schedule.
Internal Candidates Only
Job Summary: Reporting to the Strategic Sourcing Manager, the Senior Strategic Sourcing Specialist is responsible for procuring materials, equipment, supplies, and services of a specialized or complex nature in accordance with prescribed procurement policies and procedures. Will lead or support sourcing activities, prepare bid specifications, issue bid requests, review quotations, and lead or support contracting execution. Will also train UPST staff on procurement systems and policies and develop procurement record-keeping systems.
Essential Functions:
- Guide supplier identification and selection based on price, quality, delivery, etc., and place orders.
- Manage one or more subcategories of spend to optimize procurement categories, including spend analysis and supporting systemwide bids.
- Develop and refine specifications for goods and services based on stakeholder requirements.
- Interpret and communicate procurement policies and lead sourcing efforts.
- Prepare and distribute complex bid invitations or RFPs, analyze bids, and award contracts.
- Resolve complex procurement issues between functions and suppliers.
- Conduct supplier performance reviews and ensure compliance.
- Train staff and stakeholders on procurement systems and practices.
- Maintain procurement record-keeping systems.
- Manage weekly sourcing team meetings, including agenda and follow-up.
- Supervise, train, and onboard student interns.
Other Functions: Perform additional responsibilities as required.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
- 4-6 years of professional experience in purchasing, sourcing, or contract management.
Preferred Qualifications:
- At least 2 years in strategic sourcing or category management.
- Experience in higher education institutions.
- Massachusetts Certified Procurement Officer (MCPPO).
- Experience with Jaggaer and PeopleSoft systems.
- Knowledge of procurement practices, categories, and bid analysis.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Experience in change management and training development.
Working Conditions:
- Typical office environment.
- Occasional travel to campuses and central office.
Additional Details: Salary up to $90,000, commensurate with experience.
Note: Internal candidates only.
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Senior Strategic Sourcing Specialist employer: University of Massachusetts
Contact Detail:
University of Massachusetts Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Strategic Sourcing Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific procurement policies and procedures of the University of Massachusetts. Understanding their unique processes will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews and show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees in similar roles at the university. They can provide valuable insights into the work culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach and stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your experience with Jaggaer and PeopleSoft systems, as these are mentioned in the preferred qualifications. Being able to discuss your proficiency with these tools will give you an edge over other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience in strategic sourcing and category management in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've optimised procurement categories and resolved complex issues, as this will showcase your expertise and problem-solving skills.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Strategic Sourcing Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Senior Strategic Sourcing Specialist position. Understand the key responsibilities and qualifications required, as this will help you tailor your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in purchasing, sourcing, or contract management. Emphasise any specific achievements or projects that align with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that addresses your motivation for applying and how your skills and experiences make you a suitable candidate. Be sure to mention your familiarity with procurement practices and any relevant systems like Jaggaer or PeopleSoft.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial for a role in strategic sourcing.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Massachusetts
✨Understand the Procurement Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the specific procurement policies and procedures of the University of Massachusetts. Being able to discuss how your experience aligns with their practices will demonstrate your preparedness and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Sourcing Experience
Prepare examples from your past roles that highlight your strategic sourcing skills, particularly in managing complex procurement processes. Be ready to discuss how you have successfully led sourcing activities and resolved procurement issues.
✨Emphasise Training and Development Skills
Since the role involves training staff on procurement systems, be sure to highlight any experience you have in training or mentoring others. Discuss your approach to developing training materials and how you've successfully onboarded new team members.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Anticipate questions that may require you to solve hypothetical procurement challenges. Practising your responses to these scenarios can help you articulate your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking during the interview.
