Strategic Sourcing Specialist (EMEA)

Job Title: Strategic Sourcing Specialist (EMEA)

Location: Cheshire UK

Salary: �80K - �100K + Bonus + Benefits

Hrs: 08:30 - 17:00hrs (flexibility required)

Contract: Permanent
Company and Role

Our client is a highly reputable $1.6B Global Company, specialising in developing, producing, and distributing a broad range of specialty Chemicals, Minerals & Niche Products for markets including Construction, Agriculture, Steel, Oil & Gas industries.
We are seeking a Strategic Sourcing Specialist (EMEA) to manage a segment of the company's end-to-end sourcing operations, with annual purchasing requirements of $20M.
You will analyse spend, negotiate contracts, and developing long-term partnerships with suppliers. This role demands expertise in Material Requirements Planning (MRP), financial analysis, and supply chain optimisation in a fast-paced, global manufacturing environment.

This critical role supports growth objectives by fostering strategic supplier relationships, ensuring material quality, and enhancing supply chain/logistics efficiency.
Key Responsibilities of the Strategic Sourcing Specialist;

• S&OP Coordination: Collaborate in the Sales & Operations Planning process to ensure the supply of critical materials aligns with plant requirements.


• Contract Negotiations: Lead supply contract negotiations and manage pricing/terms adjustments as needed.


• Sourcing Strategies: Develop and implement sourcing and category management strategies focusing on value, capacity, and contingency planning.


• Cost Analysis: Monitor cost drivers and use statistical analysis to inform sourcing decisions/strategies.


• Quality Enforcement: Ensure world class product quality through material standards, KPIs, and issue resolution processes.


• Supplier Development: Identify and qualify new suppliers to mitigate risk and support growth.


• New Product Development Support: Partner with R&D to qualify components/materials for new products.


• Supply Chain Cost Optimization: Analyse costs and recommend improvements to enhance performance and profitability.


• Logistics Coordination: Plan and coordinate long-lead time overseas orders and manage import/export freight logistics.


• Supplier Relationship Management: Act as the primary contact for supplier relationships and oversee the Supplier Quality Management program.


• ISO Compliance: Support ISO management systems (ISO 9001:#####, ISO 14001#####5, ISO 4500#####18) with a focus on supplier control and material qualification.

As the Strategic Sourcing Specialist, you will have the following skills & qualifications;

• Education: Degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or related field.


• Experience: Minimum 5 years of experience in supply chain management, preferably in an international, multi-site manufacturing business.


• Knowledge : Any experience with Steel, Mining, Refractories or Chemical products would be advantageous.


• ERP Systems: Proficiency in ERP environments, with Oracle E-Business Suite experience preferred.


• Technical Expertise: Strong MRP knowledge and experience in Procure-to-Pay processes in a Manufacturing environment.


• Analytical Skills: Financial acumen with experience in cost analysis and reporting.


• Microsoft Office: Advanced proficiency in Word and Excel.


• Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to lead cross-functional teams.


• Problem-Solving: Strong organisational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.