Associate Strategic Sourcing Manager
Associate Strategic Sourcing Manager

Associate Strategic Sourcing Manager

Slough Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage strategic sourcing projects and develop category strategies for logistics.
  • Company: Join Mattel, a leading global toy company known for creativity and innovation.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative culture, opportunities for growth, and a chance to make an impact.
  • Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving operational efficiencies in a world-class supply chain.
  • Qualifications: 3-5 years in strategic sourcing; strong analytical and negotiation skills required.
  • Other info: Opportunity to work with iconic brands like Barbie and Hot Wheels.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

Company Description

CREATIVITY IS OUR SUPERPOWER.It’s our heritage and it’s also our future. Because we don’t just make toys. We create innovative products and experiences that inspire, entertain and develop children through play. Mattel is at its best when every member of our team feels respected, included, and heard—when everyone can show up as themselves and do their best work every day. We value and share an infinite range of ideas and voices that evolve and broaden our perspectives with a reach that extends into all our brands, partners, and suppliers.

The Team

The Global Supply Chain Organization is a competitive advantage for Mattel. Mattel’s Supply Chain is ever evolving to support the amazing portfolio of Mattel products and is never boring! This position plays a critical role by ensuring that Mattel products are delivered across all continents in the highest service standards and cost-effective conditions. To accomplish this, the position requires developing and owning high level cross functional interactions with key stakeholders and managing strategic partnerships throughout the globe. Additionally, this role will gain exceptional perspective and insight into Mattel’s Supply Chain global network.

Job Description

The Opportunity

The Associate Manager, Global Procurement is a professional role that reports directly into the Senior Director, Global Procurement.

The Associate Manager will be assigned certain Logistics categories, strategies and projects to manage to positive outcomes. This includes assisting in or directly managing the development of category strategies, cost saving initiatives and global/regional sourcing projects with a focus on Logistics across Mattel. Key Logistics areas include, but are not limited to, distribution centers/ 3PL, drayage, outbound transportation and other Logistic supporting services. Additionally, the role supports development of total cost supply chain strategies and partners closely with key Supply Chain, Logistics, Finance and Product Sourcing stakeholders at various management levels.

This role is vital to ensuring that Mattel continues to gain momentum towards truly becoming a World Class Strategic Sourcing organization which will drive further operational efficiencies across the globe via sustainable cost discipline and revenue growth platforms

What Your Impact Will Be:

  • Manage end-to-end RFI/ RFPs spanning from creation, issuance, and facilitation of the entire process through vendor selection, in collaboration with an Integrated Sourcing Team (IST) to build consensus, resolve conflict, lead and provide guidance on negotiation tactics and planning with vendors, drive project activity through the communication of expectations, creation and enforcement of deliverables, and management of issues/risks
  • Collaboratively develop and recommend category strategies based on internal data, market trends, forecasts, and Mattel Objectives.
  • Create presentations and analytics based on operations data and spend for the categories. Identify and recommend savings opportunities.
  • Manage the contracting process and supplier negotiations to ensure cost savings targets are achieved and internal stakeholder requirements are incorporated in all new agreements. This includes mentoring Team members on negotiations.
  • Partner with Finance and Logistics teams to accurately forecast annual category spend, align critical cost assumptions, and reconcile actual spend against financial targets
  • Develop and lead supplier relationship management efforts focusing on the top strategic suppliers which require engagement with senior management at Mattel and third party organizations
  • Share best practices with the Global Procurement Logistics team’s activities to drive synergies and improve effectiveness of the group
  • Continually review (individually or by a team member) current contracts to ensure business is protected and identify procurement risks and opportunities
  • Drive usage of the Coupa e-sourcing platform by the team and become a key advocate of the platform.
  • Ensure all Global Procurement Logistics legal documents are in Coupa for Europe.
  • Work with Sr Manager to develop and continually update a Logistics Road Map of activities looking forward 3 to 5 years.

This role is vital to ensuring that Mattel continues to gain momentum towards truly becoming a World Class Strategic Sourcing organization which will drive further operational efficiencies across the globe via sustainable cost discipline and revenue growth platforms.

Qualifications

What We’re Looking For:

Required Skills:

  • Minimum 3 – 5 years relevant strategic sourcing experience
  • BA/BS (Business, Finance and or Operations/Supply Chain)
  • Proven ability to learn/execute independently
  • Superior analytical, problem solving and financial modeling skills
  • Strong track record in building both internal and external relationships
  • Experience working closely with and frequently presenting to senior management
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and interact with employees at all levels.
  • Strong ability to influence
  • Strong project management skills
  • Excellent verbal/written skills
  • Strong negotiation skills
  • Proficient in PowerPoint & Excel
  • Fluent in English

Preferred skills:

  • CPM or similar certification
  • CPG background a plus
  • Financial acumen
  • Experience developing contract terms with legal
  • Working knowledge of Coupa CSO and Contracting Modules
  • Experience working closely with and frequently presenting to senior management
  • Willingness to travel (position may require up to 10% travel)
  • Strong customer service background
  • Experience leading/managing a team

Additional Information

How We Work:
We are a purpose driven company aiming to empower generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. We live up to our purpose employing the following behaviors:

  • We collaborate:Being a part of Mattel means being part of one team with shared values and common goals. Every person counts and working closely together always brings better results. Partnership is our process and our collective capabilities is our superpower.
  • We innovate:At Mattel we always aim to find new and better ways to create innovative products and experiences. No matter where you work in the organization, you can always make a difference and have real impact. We welcome new ideas and value new initiatives that challenge conventional thinking.
  • We execute:We are a performance-driven company. We strive for excellence and are focused on pursuing best-in-class outcomes. We believe in accountability and ownership and know that our people are at their best when they are empowered to create and deliver results.

Who We Are:
Mattel is a leading global toy and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world. We engage consumers and fans through our franchise brands, including Barbie, Hot Wheels, Fisher-Price, American Girl, Thomas & Friends, UNO, Masters of the Universe, Matchbox, Monster High, MEGA and Polly Pocket, as well as other popular properties that we own or license in partnership with global entertainment companies. Our offerings include toys, content, consumer products, digital and live experiences.Our products are sold in collaboration with the world’s leading retail and ecommerce companies. Since its founding in 1945, Mattel is proud to be a trusted partner in empowering generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential.

Mattel’s award-winning workplace culture has been recognized by Forbes, Fast Company, Newsweek, Great Place to Work, TIME, and more.

Visit us athttps://jobs.mattel.com/andwww.instagram.com/MattelCareers.

Mattel is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer where we want you to bring your authentic self to work every day. We welcome all job seekers, and all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, veteran and protected veteran status, disability status, and or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

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Associate Strategic Sourcing Manager employer: Mattel

At Mattel, we pride ourselves on fostering a vibrant and inclusive work culture where creativity thrives and every voice is valued. As an Associate Strategic Sourcing Manager, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with diverse teams, drive innovative sourcing strategies, and contribute to our mission of inspiring children through play. With a commitment to employee growth and development, Mattel offers a dynamic environment that encourages professional advancement while making a meaningful impact in the global toy industry.
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Contact Detail:

Mattel Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Associate Strategic Sourcing Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with Mattel's product portfolio and supply chain processes. Understanding their brands and how they operate will help you speak confidently about how your skills can contribute to their strategic sourcing goals.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with current or former employees of Mattel, especially those in procurement or supply chain roles. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations for the Associate Strategic Sourcing Manager position.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your experience with RFI/RFP processes and vendor negotiations in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed these processes in previous roles.

✨Tip Number 4

Showcase your analytical skills by being prepared to discuss how you've used data to drive cost-saving initiatives or improve supply chain efficiencies. Highlight any relevant tools or software you've used, such as Coupa.

We think you need these skills to ace Associate Strategic Sourcing Manager

Strategic Sourcing Experience
Analytical Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Financial Modelling Skills
Relationship Building
Presentation Skills
Project Management
Negotiation Skills
Proficiency in PowerPoint
Proficiency in Excel
Team Collaboration
Influencing Skills
Customer Service Orientation
Knowledge of Coupa e-sourcing platform
Contract Development Experience

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Associate Strategic Sourcing Manager position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, and think about how your experience aligns with these.

Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in strategic sourcing, logistics, and project management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to manage supplier relationships effectively.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the company. Mention how your values align with Mattel's mission and culture, and provide examples of how you have successfully managed similar projects in the past.

Highlight Key Skills: In your application, emphasise your negotiation skills, financial acumen, and proficiency in tools like PowerPoint and Excel. Make sure to mention any relevant certifications or experiences that set you apart from other candidates.

How to prepare for a job interview at Mattel

✨Understand the Company Culture

Before your interview, take some time to research Mattel's company culture. They value creativity, collaboration, and innovation. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and provide examples of how you've demonstrated these qualities in your previous roles.

✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills

As an Associate Strategic Sourcing Manager, strong analytical skills are crucial. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you've used data to drive decisions or improve processes. Prepare to share examples of financial modelling or cost-saving initiatives you've led.

✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios

Given the emphasis on negotiation in this role, think about past experiences where you've successfully negotiated contracts or agreements. Be ready to walk through your thought process and strategies during these negotiations, as well as any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.

✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration

Mattel values teamwork and collaboration. Prepare to discuss how you've worked effectively within a team, especially in cross-functional settings. Highlight any experiences where you've built relationships with stakeholders or resolved conflicts to achieve a common goal.

Associate Strategic Sourcing Manager
Mattel
M
  • Associate Strategic Sourcing Manager

    Slough
    Full-Time
    36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-07-30

  • M

    Mattel

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