At a Glance
- Tasks: Source goods and services to bring Disney stories to life at sea.
- Company: Join the iconic Walt Disney Imagineering team in a dynamic role.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, private medical insurance, and Disney park perks.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of exciting fleet expansion projects and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic sourcing and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the Role & Team
Our team plays a vital role in bringing Disney stories to life at sea. We source the goods and services that support the design, build and operation of Disney Cruise Line (DCL) ships and private islands. As a Sourcing Specialist, you will partner closely with Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI), on‑board teams and shoreside stakeholders to translate complex technical and operational requirements into efficient, compliant and value‑driven sourcing solutions.
Working across a global network of US and European partners, you will help plan and implement strategic sourcing initiatives within company guidelines, supporting fleet expansion projects from concept through execution. Your work will span a wide range of categories, including ship systems, safety, hotel operations, furnishings, navigation, environmental solutions, and repair and maintenance. You will also contribute to Strategic Sourcing initiatives, supplier and market risk analysis, contract execution, and cost‑effective logistics — all while upholding Disney’s commitment to quality, safety and responsible business practices.
This role is a four year fixed‑term contract, running until December 2030. It will be based in our London Hammersmith office, working four days per week on‑site, with either a Monday or a Friday working from home.
Disney values — acting with Integrity, welcoming everyone through Inclusion, embracing boundless Creativity, working together through Collaboration, and caring deeply for our Community. These values shape how we work and how we support one another every day.
What You Will Do
- Build strong partnerships through effective client, category and stakeholder management.
- Lead sourcing initiatives aimed at reducing Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) while maintaining performance, safety and policy compliance.
- Collaborate within cross‑functional teams to develop and implement strategic sourcing arrangements.
- Negotiate supplier relationships, including pricing, lead times, terms and conditions, scope of work, payment milestones and warranties.
- Manage quotations, project sourcing activities and order execution for assigned Disney Cruise Line vessels.
- Coordinate technical and operational requirements with on‑board partners and shoreside management, ensuring regulatory and trade compliance.
- Leverage the global supply base to achieve the most competitive landed cost and delivery outcomes.
- Proactively resolve sourcing and supply chain challenges, including timeline delays, order discrepancies and returns.
- Communicate clearly, professionally and proactively with internal and external partners.
- Establish supplier performance metrics and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Apply strong analytical and data‑driven problem‑solving skills to complex sourcing scenarios.
- Implement category management best practices across sourcing strategies.
- Manage contracts and key supplier relationships across global, regional and local agreements.
- Support risk management practices and contribute to corporate citizenship goals, including environmental responsibility and supplier diversity.
Required Qualifications & Skills
- Experience in strategic sourcing and procurement within the marine industry or a related project or construction management environment.
- Proven experience negotiating pricing and commercial terms.
- Ability to review, align and manage contracts for both technical and non‑technical engagements.
- Experience supporting formal RFP processes for goods and services.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- Clear and confident written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messages to different audiences.
- A collaborative team‑first mindset with strong interpersonal skills.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise effectively and meet commitments in a fast‑paced environment.
- Experience working with and across diverse cultures and working styles.
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Finance, Marine or Industrial Engineering, Naval Architecture, Construction Management or a related discipline.
- Familiarity with sourcing and procurement systems such as AMOS, Coupa and SAP.
Preferred Qualifications
- MBA or Master’s degree.
- Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB).
- APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP).
- ISM Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM).
- NCMA Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM).
The Perks
- 25 days annual leave.
- Private medical insurance and dental care.
- Free Park Entry for you to enjoy Disney parks with your family and friends.
- Disney Discounts on selected products, resort food and beverage, and ticketing.
- Excellent parental and guardian leave.
- Employee Resource Groups, including WOMEN @ Disney, Disney Mosaic, Disney PRIDE, ENABLED (our disability and neurodiversity group), and TRUST (Mental Health & Wellbeing).
The Walt Disney Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to be a diverse workforce that is representative of our audiences, and where everyone can thrive and belong. Disney is committed to building a team that includes and respects a variety of voices, identities, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions and access employment benefits. Please contact us to request accommodation.
Sourcing Specialist, Walt Disney Imagineering – New Builds (Fixed-Term Contract) in London employer: Dormont Manufacturing Co
Walt Disney Imagineering is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in London that fosters creativity and collaboration. As a Sourcing Specialist, you will benefit from a supportive culture that prioritises employee growth through diverse resource groups and comprehensive benefits, including generous annual leave and private medical insurance. Join us to be part of a team that not only values integrity and inclusion but also plays a crucial role in bringing enchanting Disney experiences to life.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sourcing Specialist, Walt Disney Imagineering – New Builds (Fixed-Term Contract) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Disney, especially those in sourcing or procurement roles. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Disney's values and recent projects. We want to show that we’re not just a fit for the role, but also for the company culture. Let’s make our passion for Disney shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice our negotiation skills! Since this role involves negotiating with suppliers, let’s role-play some scenarios with friends or family. The more comfortable we are, the better we’ll perform in the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can keep us on their radar and show our enthusiasm for the position. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why we’re the perfect fit!
We think you need these skills to ace Sourcing Specialist, Walt Disney Imagineering – New Builds (Fixed-Term Contract) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Sourcing Specialist role. Highlight your experience in strategic sourcing and procurement, especially within the marine industry, to show us you’re the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to emphasise your negotiation skills and your ability to manage contracts. We want to see how you’ve tackled complex sourcing scenarios and what analytical skills you bring to the table.
Be Clear and Professional:When writing your application, keep your communication clear and professional. Tailor your messages to reflect our values of integrity and collaboration, so we can see how you align with our team culture.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates about the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dormont Manufacturing Co
✨Know Your Sourcing Strategies
Familiarise yourself with strategic sourcing principles, especially in the marine industry. Be ready to discuss how you can reduce Total Cost of Ownership while maintaining quality and compliance. Prepare examples from your past experiences that showcase your ability to negotiate effectively and manage supplier relationships.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Since this role requires strong analytical and data-driven problem-solving skills, come prepared with examples of how you've tackled complex sourcing scenarios. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you used data to inform your decisions. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the demands of the position.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Disney values collaboration, so be sure to highlight your experience working within cross-functional teams. Share stories that illustrate your ability to build strong partnerships and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders. This will show that you align with Disney's commitment to teamwork and inclusion.
✨Understand Disney's Values
Research Disney's core values—Integrity, Inclusion, Creativity, Collaboration, and Community. Be prepared to discuss how these values resonate with you and how you can embody them in your work as a Sourcing Specialist. This will help you connect with the interviewers on a deeper level and show that you're a good cultural fit.
