Stratégic buyer

Salary :

Activity area : Construction and engineering

Post category : Logistics and procurement

A manufacturing company located in the center of Quebec is looking for a strategic buyer to add to the team. The role primarily involves defining the optimal procurement strategy for all commodities by sourcing new suppliers, identifying innovative products, and implementing best procurement practices. The goal is to deploy action plans in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to foster long-term relationships. The position also includes evaluating and developing suppliers in line with the company’s strategic objectives, while providing support to improve qualification criteria and standards with suppliers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Continuously monitor supplier markets, identifying those with the potential to become strategic partners. This includes attending trade shows, engaging on social media, and visiting factories, with international travel required.
• Identify and adopt best procurement practices for ongoing projects.
• Maximize the contractual coverage for the commodities under responsibility.
• Research, optimize, and select new sourcing options, both in North America and internationally.
• Negotiate the purchase of raw materials and components (pricing, delivery timelines, contractual agreements, payment terms, volume discounts, minimum order quantities, etc.).
• Generate cost-saving opportunities in line with the defined annual objectives.
• Coordinate with operational buyers on decisions regarding supplier exits/closures and verify any outstanding situations.
• Conduct audits at new suppliers, as needed.
• Perform Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analyses.
• Identify vulnerabilities in the supply chain and propose corrective actions.
• Contribute to rationalizing the supplier base by reducing the number of suppliers.
• Analyze market trends and inform the organization of any potential risks or opportunities.
• Participate in improving business processes related to the supply chain.
• Assist operational buyers in resolving commercial or contractual disputes.
• Forecast raw material needs (e.g., steel booking, fiberglass).
• Contribute to supplier evaluations based on the master list and follow up on related actions.

Skills and Qualifications:

• University degree in business administration, supply chain management, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in procurement in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong negotiation skills and excellent communication abilities.
• Excellent teamwork skills.
• Advocate for best procurement practices.
• In-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes for materials such as steel, fiberglass, rubber, glass, and plastics.
• Proficiency in Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) concepts.
• Basic legal document drafting skills (contracts, letters of agreement, etc.).
• Bilingualism required (French and English) as over 80% of suppliers communicate in English. Proficiency in a third language is an asset.
• Willingness to travel regularly (20-25%) internationally.