Position Summary The Sourcing Specialist is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies that drive material cost savings, improve supplier performance, and ensure continuity of supply for ingredients, packaging, and indirect materials. This role focuses on strategic supplier selection, contract negotiation, and market analysis to deliver best-value outcomes for the business. The Sourcing Specialist partners cross-functionally with Procurement, R&D, Quality, Finance, and Operations to align sourcing decisions with business objectives. This is an individual contributor role with no direct supervisory responsibilities. Key Responsibilities Strategic Sourcing & Cost Management Develop and implement sourcing strategies that reduce total cost of ownership while maintaining quality, service, and compliance. Conduct cost and market analyses to identify pricing trends, raw material cost drivers, and cost-saving opportunities. Lead supplier negotiations to secure favorable terms related to pricing, lead times, and quality. Identify, evaluate, and qualify new suppliers to strengthen supply base resilience and competitiveness. Partner with Procurement and Finance to achieve annual cost savings and margin improvement goals. Supplier Relationship Management Build and maintain strong relationships with strategic suppliers to support performance, innovation, and risk mitigation. Monitor and evaluate supplier performance against key metrics for quality, delivery, and cost. Collaborate with Quality Assurance on supplier audits, compliance requirements, and corrective action plans. Support supplier onboarding and ensure compliance with company standards, certifications, and policies. Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with R&D and Operations on new product development initiatives to identify sourcing solutions that meet functional and cost targets. Collaborate with Procurement Specialists and Buyers to ensure supplier agreements and cost structures are effectively implemented. Provide market insights and category intelligence to support production planning, forecasting, and budgeting activities. Contract & Risk Management Manage supplier contracts in alignment with legal, regulatory, and ethical standards. Assess supply risk and develop contingency plans for critical materials or single-source dependencies. Monitor commodity markets to anticipate and mitigate potential cost fluctuations or supply disruptions. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or a related field. Minimum of 5 years of experience in sourcing or procurement; experience in food manufacturing or ingredient-based industries preferred. Strong negotiation and analytical skills with a demonstrated track record of cost reduction and supplier optimization. Working knowledge of ingredient and packaging markets, sourcing best practices, and global trade principles. Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and advanced Excel modeling. Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship management skills. Professional certification (CPSM, CSCP, or equivalent) preferred. #J-18808-Ljbffr