Sourcing/Materials Spec - Travel

Major Focus of Position: Manage Supply Management strategies for new product programs, initiatives, and strategic materials. Apply advanced knowledge of procurement and material management principles and techniques to award and administer component and service contracts involving complex administrative and technical requirements. Lead internal teams focusing on storeroom inventory optimization and cost reductions as appropriate.

Required Skills:
Solicit quotations and analyze contract proposals while leading formulation of strategy and negotiation of pricing, delivery, and terms and conditions to satisfy requirements for highly complex and specialized materials, equipment, components, and services.
Plan, develop, and implement global procurement and purchase resale strategies to maximize sales, billing, and margins while minimizing risk.
Develop, implement, communicate, and monitor measures/benchmarks for managing inventory practices and sourcing/materials processes to improve supply base performance. Lead quality improvement initiatives where appropriate.
Analyze and evaluate all elements of cost for commodity groups to identify and obtain cost improvements. Develop strategies to maximize supplier base cost/value.
Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers and customers while mediating and resolving contract performance issues.
Analyze inventory usage and establish plans to reduce obsolescence.
Lead identification, development, and implementation of current and emerging best practice techniques.
Align sourcing strategies and procure materials and supplies in concert with company strategies/objectives.
Monitor, control, and reduce sourcing/materials budget costs.
Provide internal leadership, training, and day-to-day direction of peers and subordinates.
Maintain external global contacts with key suppliers, licensees, partners, and industry sources.
Oversee resolution of disputes, deficiencies, and warranty claims.
Understand and manage entire supply chain including primary and sub-tier suppliers for assigned commodity groups. Apply comprehensive knowledge of advanced concepts and practices to inventory management, procurement, computer-based inventory systems, and manufacturing operations. Conduct multimillion-dollar contract negotiations of significant technical complexity.
Direct and execute the physical movement of export and import shipments and the determination and preparation of all legally required documentation.
Implement transportation functions and duties i.e., analyze conditions for delivery; research alternative transportation options; determine cost/benefit outcomes; and negotiate more favorable rates, delivery terms, and modes.
Lead the planning, development, and execution of complex transportation challenges such as extreme overweight and oversize components, including route survey, analysis, and modification and working with multiple disciplines and organizations (i.e., multiple suppliers, rail, truck, barge, crane, and engineering).
Direct cost reductions for freight and distribution expenses and research new and improved methods of transportation and distribution.
Perform feasibility studies and cost analyses and negotiate major carrier contracts for transportation and major projects.
Maintain awareness of regulations to ensure compliance with U.S. customs laws and hazardous materials regulations. Coordinate training of subcontract personnel as required.

Experience Requirements:
Typically 6 or more years professional experience

Education Requirements:
Bachelor's degree or equivalent
*Business Administration
*Supply Management

Certified Purchasing Manager certification from the Institute of Supply Management is desirable.
Hazardous Materials certification required for air and ground transportation within 90 days of assuming position.
Import Broker's License preferred (required within 2 years of accepting position).

1. Leading contract negotiations
2. Generating process improvements
3. Guiding enhancements to existing policies and procedures
4. Analyze business requirements and objectives
5. Monitoring spend data, compliance to policy information and reporting to upper management
6. Strong communication and influence skills with all levels of management, both internal and external
7. Contract administration
8. 5+ years of experience in the travel industry
9. Familiarity with airline regulations, standards, restrictions, and policies