Global Sourcing Specialist in Reading

Location: BerkshireType: PermanentSalary: Consultant: Lucy LoRussoContact: : Global Sourcing Specialist- Directs & IndirectsWe are seeking a commercially minded Global Sourcing Specialist to develop and execute global sourcing strategies across a diverse portfolio of direct and indirect spend.Weekly presence required in Maidenhead, Berkshire, when not travelling. Anticipated global travel of approximately 25–40%.Base salary – 60- 70,000Covering a broad range of third-party products, electronic and mechanical components, consumables and operational categories, this role will focus on identifying sourcing opportunities, building international supplier partnerships and delivering commercial value across the business.This is an exciting opportunity to influence the future direction of a global supply chain organisation. You will have the autonomy to develop strategic supplier partnerships, identify new sourcing opportunities and establish global purchasing agreements that deliver lasting commercial and operational value. If you’re passionate about procurement excellence, international sourcing and driving business improvement, we’d love to hear from you.Working closely with Supply Chain, Operations, Engineering, Product Management and Finance, you will play an important role in strengthening the global supply base and supporting the company’s ambitious growth plans. With significant sourcing activity in China and suppliers across international markets, this is a hands-on opportunity to develop your global procurement experience, influence sourcing decisions and make a tangible impact on the business.Key duties of the Global Sourcing Specialist:Developing and implementing sourcing strategies across a varied portfolio of direct and indirect spend, identifying opportunities to improve cost, quality, availability and supplier performance.Sourcing direct products including electronic components, antennas, ruggedised tablets, warning lights, audible warning devices and other products incorporated into the company’s high tech mechanical products.Managing sourcing activity across mechanical components, nuts, bolts, fasteners, washers, cable ties and associated hardware.Supporting indirect procurement across categories including PPE, travel management, storage solutions, logistics and shipping services.Identifying, evaluating and onboarding suppliers, leading RFQs, commercial negotiations and supplier benchmarking to secure competitive pricing and favourable terms.Building and developing relationships with international suppliers, particularly in China, establishing global supply agreements and identifying opportunities to strengthen the supplier base.Undertaking significant international travel, including visits to suppliers and colleagues in China and South Africa, to develop relationships, resolve challenges and identify sourcing opportunities.Working with internal stakeholders to ensure sourced products meet technical and operational requirements and are suitable for integration into the company’s systems.Supporting the development of effective supply and distribution arrangements for international customers, including those operating in remote locations where tailored logistics solutions may be required.Identifying opportunities for supplier consolidation, cost reduction, improved processes and greater commercial value across the procurement portfolio.The successful candidate will have:Experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, supplier management or commercial buying, with a track record of negotiating with suppliers and delivering value.Experience across direct procurement, ideally involving electronics, mechanical components, technology or other product-based categories.The ability to identify sourcing opportunities, evaluate suppliers and develop effective commercial agreements.Experience working with international suppliers or an interest in developing a global sourcing career, with a willingness to undertake regular international travel.Strong commercial acumen, negotiation skills and the confidence to build relationships across different cultures and stakeholder groups.A proactive, analytical and solutions-focused approach, with the ability to take ownership and adapt in a fast-paced, evolving environment.Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, working collaboratively across functions to achieve business objectives.Experience sourcing from China would be particularly advantageous, and Mandarin language skills would be a significant bonus but are not essential.A willingness to learn and develop product knowledge; extensive technical expertise across every category is not required.Benefits of the Global Sourcing Specialist role include:60,000–70,000Up to 7% matched pensionPMIGroup life assuranceGroup income protection