Product Sourcing Specialist

The successful candidate will perform internal analytics and external research, as well as collect, organize and present this information to the appropriate internal teams for plan development related to specific projects.

This role requires effective coordination with multiple internal teams and external partners to optimize costs, select the most suitable suppliers, produce quality products and ensure that all signed agreements protect the best interests of Advanta Sourcing and our partners.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Manage and analyze RFQs, according to industry standards and company policies
• Conduct internal analytics and external research to identify suppliers and manufacturers
• Investigate the market to source, select, and recommend purchasing options, materials, products, along with obtaining and analyzing quotations
• Work in a cross-functional team environment to achieve the best cost for products, materials and services without compromising performance, quality or reliability
• Identify and implement savings opportunities
• Develop creative ideas, opportunities, strategies, and programs to drive down the cost of direct and indirect materials and services on a continuing basis.
• Present information to the appropriate internal teams for plan development related to the specific projects
• Negotiate contracts and work with internal and external legal departments to ensure all contracts meet internal requirements
• Responsible for initiation, completion and coordination of vendor onboarding
• Work with appropriate internal teams to issue purchase orders for procurement of assigned materials, products and services
• Resolve problems with suppliers including determining acceptable delivery lead time and schedules, alternative sourcing methods, and working with vendors to resolve discrepancies
• Evaluate vendor performance to ensure compliance with company policies, procedures
• Liaise and coordinate with stakeholders for the delivery of goods and/or services while keeping all affected parties informed of any changes
• Assist internal stakeholders and teams with procurement planning and budgeting activities
• Participate in development of stakeholders’ plans and requirements
• Work with internal and external teams on all aspects of the purchasing process; product development, vendor audits, quality control, product testing, logistics, distribution etc.
• Develop and maintain proactive and positive relationships with customers, vendors, local authorities and stakeholders
• Participate in training and development initiatives, lead focus teams and participate in other duties as needed.
• Support business continuity by providing coverage for other agents during vacation, surge and/or disaster response periods
• May be required to work non-traditional hours, be on-call, and respond to urgent related requests on occasion

Qualifications, skills and what we're looking for:

• Minimum five years of related work experience in sourcing, buying, supply chain management or procurement, and courses in purchasing/procurement, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Post-secondary diploma or degree in a related discipline (business, engineering, materials management, international trade, supply chain etc)
• High proficiency, strong communication and interpersonal skills (written and spoken in both Mandarin and English)
• Comprehensive knowledge of different materials used in various manufacturing processes (metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, papers, and textiles)
• Solid knowledge of contract law, material/product forecasting, duties and taxes, foreign exchange and terms of payment
• Experience overseeing high-value, high-volume purchasing and contract negotiations across a range of services and commodities
• Comprehensive knowledge of end-to-end supply chain processes and best practices
• Excellent time management and organizational skills along with having the ability to work under pressure to meet timelines and deadlines
• Strong negotiation, problem analysis and resolution skills
• Experience in managing and maintaining vendor relationships
• Ability to multitask while working in a fast-paced environment
• A strong team-player with experience working in cross-functional teams
• Intermediate level Microsoft Office Skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Industry certifications/designations are considered a strong asset (SCMP, CPIM, CSCP, etc)
• Basic MRP/ERP experience required (SAP preferred)
• Strong knowledge of the Chinese market and suppliers
• Positive and enthusiastic work ethic and attitude
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Able to travel (transportation provided or reimbursed)
• Able to work in Tianhe district of Guangzhou, China

Working situation:

• The successful candidate will spend a combination of their working time from our office in Guangzhou, China, as well as out of office meetings with suppliers at their physical locations
• For out of office work, company transportation and/or expense coverage is provided