Special Instructions to Applicants:

 All interested applicants should attach a resume in PDF format in the Supporting Documents section of the application.

Position Summary:

The Strategic Sourcing Lead will lead tier 1 strategic sourcing initiatives across campus. This role will develop go-to-market strategies, lead the execution of large RFPs, author contract language, negotiate commercial T&Cs, manage relationships w/key suppliers, facilitate stakeholder engagements, evaluate market conditions, and develop/execute the strategic sourcing plan.

Ideal Candidate Statement:

The ideal candidate has significant experience leading high value strategic sourcing engagements, a passion for delivering results, is intent on making an impact, and collaborates well with internal and external stakeholders.

Workplace Requirements 

This position is offered as a hybrid role (minimum of 3 days in the office per week). Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

Hiring Range: 

$90,000 - $110,000, contingent upon qualifications and experience

Minimum Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
  • In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year for year basis may be substituted.
• Four or more (4 ) years of related strategic sourcing or category management experience.

Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with a variety of individuals and personalities at all levels internally and externally.
• Strong interpersonal, negotiation, listening and presentation skills.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and propose data-driven decisions.
• Strong customer service focus, including a positive attitude and a sense of urgency.
• Exceptional team member. Must be able to work with a team, take direction, adhere to required work schedules, meet commitments, focus on details, and comply with work rules.
• Ability to work cooperatively and effectively with others 
• Ability to engage and influence across a broad range of stakeholders with tact, courtesy, and professionalism.
• Ability to support stakeholders to help achieve key organizational goals. 
• Ability to coach/consult team members and stakeholders to effectively develop, negotiate, and execute successful RFX’s and contracts.
• Ability to resolve conflict in a win-win manner.
• Ability to identify value creating opportunities.
• Ability to work independently and within an organization to manage tasks and timelines.
• Ability to maintain a measurable high level of performance.
• Self-motivated with the ability to successfully manage multiple tasks, organize and prioritize work to meet strict deadlines, and work with minimal direct supervision.
• Ability to organize, schedule and prioritize workload to meet key milestones and objectives.
• Intermediate proficiency in MS Office (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
• Familiarity with eSourcing applications.
• Must be able to perform all essential and marginal functions of the job.

Preferences:

• Seven or more (7 ) years of related strategic sourcing or category management experience.
• Expert proficiency with the strategic sourcing process.
• Experience with indirect procurement categories.
• Intermediate proficiency with eSourcing and spend analytics applications.
• Familiarity with Adobe Acrobat and Oracle Fusion Cloud.
• Familiarity with higher education procurement practices and requirements.

Essential Functions:

• Develop and execute Strategic Sourcing Plan.
• Lead tier 1 and tier 2 RFPs.
• Develop go-to-market strategies. 
• Identify, capture and deliver value-generating opportunities.
• Lead commercial contract negotiations.
• Facilitate stakeholder engagements.
• Manage relationships with key suppliers.
• Evaluate market conditions and identify alternative potential sources.
• Ensures commitments are met.
• Performs all other duties as assigned

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits-overview

Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity at all levels. It considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.