Sourcing Specialist

Overview

Dexter, the premier manufacturer and supplier of axles, suspension, brakes, doors, venting products, trailer parts, accessories, and towing components serving the commercial trailer, RV, heavy-duty, marine, agriculture, and manufactured housing markets has an opportunity for a Sourcing Specialist at our manufacturing facility located in Elkhart, Indiana. 

Headquartered in Elkhart, Indiana, Dexter employs over 3,800 people throughout the U.S. and Canada, operates 18 manufacturing facilities, and distributes trailer parts and accessories through over 30 company-owned distribution locations. Employing state-of-the-art robotics, precision welding equipment, and automated machining processes, Dexter has achieved many years of success through a commitment to the principles of superior quality, continuous improvement, and unparalleled customer service.

For more information about our company, access Dexter's web site at www.dextergroup.com.

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Strategic Sourcing Specialist to join our procurement team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing proactive sourcing strategies to optimize costs, cultivate and enhance supplier relationships.  Conducts market research, analysis, benchmarking and forecasting to refine opportunities and ensure the ongoing availability of quality goods and servicesThe Strategic Sourcing Specialist will play a critical role in supply planning, achieving cost savings and process improvement opportunities, supplier negotiations, mitigating risks, and organizational efficiencies within the supply chain.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement comprehensive strategic sourcing strategies aligned with organizational objectives.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings, process improvements, and efficiency gains within the sourcing process.
• Understands regional and local supply markets, including major suppliers and their capabilities.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure the timely and cost-effective delivery of goods and services.
• Evaluate and assess supplier performance, and implement continuous improvement
• Conduct market research and analysis to stay abreast of industry trends, market conditions, and emerging opportunities or risks.
• Provide insights and recommendations based on market intelligence to support decision-making.
• Lead negotiations with suppliers to secure favorable terms, including pricing, payment terms, and service level agreements.
• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts to ensure compliance with organizational standards and mitigate risks.
• Calculate and analyze total cost of ownership for goods and services, considering factors such as transportation, inventory, and quality.
• Prepare and present regular reports on cost savings, supplier performance, and other key metrics.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including finance, operations, and quality assurance, to align sourcing strategies with organizational goals.
• Engage stakeholders to gather input and ensure their requirements are considered in sourcing decisions.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, policies, and ethical standards in all sourcing activities.
• Identify and mitigate potential risks associated with the supply chain.

Requirements

Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field. Master’s degree is a plus.
• Proven experience as a Strategic Sourcing Specialist or in a similar procurement role.
• Understanding of Strategic Sourcing methodologies
• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to build and maintain effective relationships with suppliers.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient in contract negotiation and management.
• Knowledge of market trends, sourcing best practices, and procurement technologies.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and data integrity.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional certification in procurement or supply chain management (e.g., CSCP, CPSM).
• Experience in [specific industry or sector relevant to the organization].
• Familiarity with ERP and procurement software.
• Project management aptitude
• Financial Modeling and Quantitative Analysis

If you are a proactive and results-driven professional with a passion for strategic sourcing, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity to contribute to our organization's success.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.