Strategic Sourcing Associate (Direct Hire)
Dayton, OH
Job Requisition: 7624
Description for Strategic Sourcing Associate:
The Strategic Sourcing Associate is responsible for managing how a company selects and works with suppliers for materials, equipment, and services. This role focuses on identifying and evaluating suppliers, running RFQ processes, negotiating pricing and contract terms, and ensuring supplier performance aligns with company expectations for cost, quality, and reliability. It involves maintaining ongoing supplier relationships, monitoring contracts and renewals, supporting sustaining/new product sourcing efforts, and partnering with internal teams such as engineering and quality to ensure successful supply outcomes. The position also plays a key role in analyzing supplier data, improving sourcing strategies, managing risk within the supply chain, and driving cost and efficiency improvements.
Responsibilities for Strategic Sourcing Associate:
- Evaluate business needs and identify the most suitable suppliers to deliver products and/or services
- Lead and coordinate RFQ activities for both new and existing requirements
- Support the oversight of supplier contracts to ensure the client receives high-quality products and services
- Build and maintain strong working relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers
- Ensure all new suppliers complete the required approval and onboarding processes in line with company policy
- Review supplier contracts and NDAs, providing recommendations for updates or improvements
- Track contract expiration dates and assist with renewals to maintain continuity
- Source and assess new suppliers through market research, considering cost, quality, reliability, and delivery performance
- Negotiate pricing, terms, and agreements with suppliers to align with company objectives
- Develop and manage relationships with key suppliers to support long-term partnerships
- Evaluate supplier quotes and cost structures, including total cost of ownership, to drive informed sourcing decisions
- Stay informed on market trends, industry developments, and new technologies to support sourcing strategies
- Partner with cross-functional teams to implement sourcing strategies aligned with business goals
- Collaborate with suppliers and the client’s quality team to ensure products and services meet required standards
- Identify supply chain risks and help develop mitigation strategies to ensure consistent supply
- Drive cost savings and lead time reductions through negotiation, process improvements, and supplier optimization
- Support supplier selection for new product introductions in partnership with engineering
- Develop, track, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs)
- Perform additional duties as assigned by management
Requirements for Strategic Sourcing Associate:
- High school diploma or GED required (Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent job experience)
- Experience sourcing or purchasing for a manufacturing environment highly preferred
- Working knowledge of the application of strategic sourcing principles including spend analysis, concept and strategy development, market analysis and research, requirements definition, Statement of Work development, Request for Quote development and management, vendor negotiations, contract assessment, vendor onboarding and management, and data management
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to partner with cross functional teams
