Sourcing Manager

Job Responsibilities

Strong Project Management skills to ensure project initiatives are monitored, communicated and achieved

Regularly assess risks associated with key project steps and facilitate the development of solutions with the project team

Work cross-functionally internally (marketing, digital product, engineering, customer team, finance/accounting) and externally (suppliers and vendors) while supporting the development and commercialization of new products

Support the development and completion of formal RFQs from different vendors and suppliers to support product development plans and Operations strategy initiatives

Partner with the rest of Operations to understand vendor improvement opportunities, needs, and priorities, and how sourcing can improve the performance of A|U’s supply chain

Adhere to budgets by monitoring expenses and assist with cost saving initiatives

Works closely with the Physical Product Innovations core team to help design new product, define specifications, and prepare for go-live.  Includes:

R&D - works directly with Innovation Manager to marry concepts with capabilities so that ideas can be prototyped

Prototyping Physical Product - own project management of early stages of product development and prototyping with suppliers and potential production partners

Samples - own project management of final product samples to ensure all product requirements are met prior to LOS (correct specifications, packaging, shipping requirements, in box marketing material, etc)

Physical Test Orders - own management and execution of physical product test orders needed to meet go-live goals; coordinates with Digital Product and Product Listing for end to end approval

Communicates all relevant information Customer Experience team needs to support new product

Supporting supply chain team risk management plans relating to sourcing, purchasing, and overall supply chain strategy

Developing new sourcing strategies and negotiating prices with vendors/suppliers to manage costs while optimizing quality and lead-times.

Working with suppliers to develop new capabilities and to improve existing products by providing feedback on their design or performance

Source and qualify new vendors and suppliers as dictated by business strategy, physical product innovation needs, and supply chain objectives

Qualifications

Strong project management skills and experience using a common project management software tool; e.g. Asana, MS Project, etc.

Experience working in a role developing and launching physical products

2+ years sourcing new vendors or suppliers, qualifying them, and establishing strong partnerships

The ability to travel (3-5 times per year, domestically)

Strong communication and time management skills

College degree or equivalent experience required

Knowledge of print manufacturing strongly desired

Experience working with a 3PL or other fulfillment provider

Knowledge of the Supply chain operations principles, procedures, and best practices.

Knowledge of Six Sigma concepts and lean methodologies, especially as they pertain to supply chain management