Strategic Sourcing Manager - Professional Services

Unprecedented customer service and unrivaled innovation make OfficeMax the one to beat in the office products marketplace. With over $8 billion in sales, over 40,000 associates and almost 1,000 superstores, 25,000 products and a range of business services, only OfficeMax is qualified to meet the needs of enterprise-level, mid-size and small businesses, and individual customers.




The Manager, Strategic Sourcing is responsible for the overall strategic management of an assigned area of expertise. This position is responsible for delivering year-over-year cost savings utilizing the total Cost of Ownership (TCO) approach with emphasis on the customer. Additionally, this position will identify, develop and implement strategies to increase value for its internal customers through the application of sound procurement practices and TCO.

 Position Responsibilities
Manages assigned categories to create value and service to internal customer. Provides counsel to internal customer during selection process and identifies category requirements.
Manages vendor relationships in an ethical and professional manner.
Leads vendor selection and negotiation process with emphasis on the services and value needed by the customer while ensuring a competitive agreement and price.
Manages and tracks internal implementation and contract compliance.
Identifies and implements TCO cost reduction opportunities. Presents and reviews findings with internal customer (management) ensuring quality of service is not sacrificed.
Monitors vendor performance through regular contact with internal customer. Works with customer and vendor to resolve service and operational issues.
Identifies and implements best sourcing practices.
Demonstrates a commitment to OfficeMax core values of safety, integrity, process improvement, and customer satisfaction.
The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.

Quantitative Dimensions

The Manager, Strategic Sourcing is accountable to the OfficeMax Business Owners to provide customer service by leveraging the company’s total spend in each business category across all business segments resulting in lower TCO. This position will manage spend of up to $200 million and will provide and ROI that exceeds company guidelines. In conjunction with the Business Owners, manages all aspects of the strategic procurement process.


Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Engineering or Accounting or equivalent experience
Previous procurement experience typically achieved with a minimum of seven years work experience in a retail or contract business
Professional designation as CPM helpful
Demonstrated problem solving ability with strong interpersonal skills preferred
Established analytical skills with proficient use of Microsoft products
Demonstrated ability to deal with confrontation and resolve conflicts