PROCUREMENT CATEGORY LEAD

Job Title : Procurement Category Lead

Who We Are : USCS is driven to advance, innovate and serve companies seeking the best service, facilities, and logistics in the cold chain.

We are employee focused, an equal employment opportunity employer and would love to have you join our team.

The Job Details :

• Oversee account consolidation within the existing vendor group
• Develop and execute procurement strategies specifically tailored to warehouse operations, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives
• Identify opportunities for cost savings, process improvements, and supplier consolidation within the warehouse operations category
• Establish and maintain strong vendor relationships with key suppliers, negotiating contracts, terms, and pricing agreements to optimize value for the organization
• Monitor supplier performance, addressing any issues or concerns promptly to maintain smooth operations
• Work to oversee implementation of selected category management strategies
• Work closely with area leadership to identify and implement new procurement strategies
• Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders to provide updates on procurement initiatives, identify potential risks, and solicit feedback for improvement
• Lead RFP's at the regional level for selected operating categories
• Identify and mitigate potential risks within the warehouse supply chain, such as supply disruptions, quality issues, or regulatory compliance concerns
• Become point person for managing the shipping accounts for the entire organization
• Explore additional opportunities within our group purchasing organization
• Assist the Senior Manager of Strategic Procurement in analysis of new opportunities
• Work to fine tune vendor categorization in order to gain insights into additional categories
• Work with the BI team to develop additional dashboards for better analysis
• Negotiate contracts and agreements with suppliers to secure favorable terms, pricing, and service levels
• Responsible for ensuring business reviews are held with preferred vendors within the operations category

The Job Specifics :

• Location, Department and Work Hours : M-F 8 : 30-5 : 00PM
• Reports To : Brian Murphy
• Travel Amount : 20%
• Job Type, EEO, and Job Code : Exempt

What We Are Looking For :

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain Management (equivalent business experience will be considered)

Experience

• At least 3 years of experience in procurement
• Excellent negotiation and contract management skills, with a track record of achieving cost savings and driving value for the organization
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, conduct market research, and develop actionable insights
• Project management experience a plus
• Detail oriented with a strategic mindset, capable of balancing short-term operational needs with long-term business objectives
• Ability to prioritize amongst multiple projects
• Strategic thinker - able to describe and sell a vision to business stakeholders
• Ability to work independently and expand on ideas and take initiative
• Strong excel skills are a must

Other Abilities You Will Need to Have : The physical demands described below are representative of those required of an individual performing the essential duties of this position.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.

• Good arithmetic, reading, and typing skills
• Sit and / or stand for extended periods of time
• Be able to see, speak and hear
• Ability to work overtime as needed
• May require physical effort associated with using the computer to access information, or occasional standing, walking, lifting needed to carry out everyday activities.
• Understand and follow verbal instruction, written instruction and company policies.
• A starter that can work independently and coordinate with others
• Follow safety procedures at all times.
• Ability to manage stress and productivity guidelines

The Standard Details :

• Always maintain a professional manner in appearance and communications.
• Participate in staff and / or customer meetings if required.
• Initiate action to prevent the occurrence of any non-conformities relating to product, process, and quality systems.
• Identify and record any issues relating to product, processes and / or quality.
• Initiate, recommend, or provide solutions through appropriate channels.
• Verify the implementation of solutions.
• Follow posted security procedures at all times while in the building.
• Participate in Safety and Educational Training.

What's In It For You :

A great company with great people. Full-time employees not under contract are offered : 401K and Educational Assistance after 1 year;

If elected, Blue Cross Blue Shield after 30 days of service; Company Life Insurance; and a bunch of other great perks.

Things We Need To Mention :

• The above job description may not include all tasks necessary to complete the job.
• Job functions may vary based on area of operation. The job description is a listing of the most common tasks the associate will be required to perform in that job area.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.