Kohler Co.: Senior Buyer – It & Telecom

Senior Buyer IT & TelecomWork Mode: RemoteLocation: Kohler, WIOpportunityThe Sr. Buyer IT & Telecom role is a highly visible role working closely with senior IT, Business leaders, Legal, and Procurement to analyze, develop, and drive category-specific sourcing initiatives to meet and exceed business metrics in terms of cost, quality, service, and delivery.Some of primary functions would include but not limited to Strategically source and manage suppliers in the IT & Telecom spend categories.Manage day to day operational tasks with a strong focus on continuous improvement.Direct involvement in Supplier Performance Management.A certain degree of creativity and latitude is expected.You will support/lead national and maybe global IT procurement initiatives, industry benchmarking, and new ways to improve cash position. You may also find yourself analyzing IT spend data to uncover new potential opportunities and leveraging best practices.ResponsibilitiesIndependently lead the RFx/acquisition process to secure IT products/services to ensure competitiveness and to limit risk exposure to Kohler.Review business and functional requirements with internal customer(s) to help develop solid requirements and scope.Recommend alternative products or methods based on industry insight, benchmarking and availability.Analyze supplier proposals, quotes and make recommendations based on techno-commercial evaluation,Negotiate commercials and contract terms with suppliers in light of culture, currency, geographic, and political environment factors.Expedite delivery of products and services as required to meet business objectives.Manage and improve supplier relationships with a focus on regularly identifying cost savings opportunities and improving supplier performance metrics.Conduct Market research and stay on top of industry trends in the IT & Telecom world.Collaborate with global counterparts in procurement, IT, Business, Legal etc.Maintain required records such as quotes and price lists, blanket order file, supplier correspondence, contracts and supplier performance data.Comfortable working with category teams, supplier quality, materials management, engineering and operations.Conduct tail spend analysis to identify potential opportunities.Manager supplier pre-screening, due diligence and registration process.Work with offshore support team and AP to reconcile the invoicing related issues.Drive the supplier approval and management process byIdentifying and maintaining direct contact with suppliers,Visiting facilities as a team member to conduct supplier assessments with respect to business practices, quality of operations, opportunities for continuous improvement,Supporting resolution of warranty and service issues with suppliers,Maintaining ongoing supplier performance data for periodic internal/external review and initiate corrective action/development as necessary.Skills/RequirementsBachelors degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Operations or Business5+ years of experience in Procurement, Supply Chain or Business2+ years of Experience in IT ProcurementProficient in use of all common computer Microsoft Office software applications and collaboration tools including Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, OneNote, etc.SAP experience is desirableEffective written, verbal communication and phone skillsExperience using Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, familiarity with e-sourcing toolsDesired Certified in Production and Inventory Management. (CPIM) and/or Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) certifications.Request for Proposal (RFP) processes, supplier management, and other procurement principles experienceNegotiation experience, contract development, and executionHandle multiple priorities simultaneouslyPlanning, organizational, managing, financial, and analytical skillsInterpersonal, motivational, and influential skills to engage business partnersLeadership attributes and decision-making abilitiesCustomer focus with the ability to effectively communicate with all levels of the IT and businessesApplicants must be authorized to work in the US without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.Why Work at Kohler Co.?Kohler Co.’s mission is to contribute to a higher level of gracious living for those who are touched by our products and services. We understand that it takes investment in our associates’ development to make that happen. So, we offer ongoing investment in each individual’s personal development and the opportunity to collaborate with others across functions and roles at Kohler.In addition to the investment in your development, Kohler offers a benefits package including a competitive salary, health, vision, dental, 401(k) with company matching, and more!About UsBeyond the competitive benefits and compensation, Kohler proudly offers a rich history, steeped in creativity and a commitment to our associates and communities. We invite you to learn more about our culture and company at www.Kohlercompany.Com.It is Kohler’s policy to recruit, hire, and promote qualified personnel in all job classifications without regard to race, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, disability or veteran status. If, as an individual with a disability, you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact. Kohler Co. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.We invite you to learn more about equal employment opportunity by reviewing the Federal EEO is the Law and the EEO is the Law Supplement .