The Sourcing Manager will work closely with internal stakeholders across departments to understand business needs, identify opportunities, and implement sourcing solutions that align with corporate goals. The Manager of Sourcing will lead competitive bid processes, contract negotiations, and supplier performance management for key spend categories.

To be successful in this role, this individual must have strategic sourcing experience, strong analytical and negotiation skills, and the ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced, evolving environment. This individual must be a strategic thinker with strong analytical skills and a collaborative mindset.

** Hybrid role - In office 2 days per week (Offices are in Hickory, NC or Winston Salem, NC) 

The Sourcing Manager will partner with internal stakeholders to deliver the following critical business outcomes (as required)

Strategic Sourcing Execution-
• Lead end-to-end sourcing processes, including RFI/RFP development, evaluation, and supplier selection
• Drive cost reduction, total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis, and value delivery initiatives
• Conduct contract negotiations and manage renewals for key vendors
• Maintain strong supplier relationships and resolve performance issues as needed

Stakeholder Engagement-
• Act as a trusted advisor to business partners for sourcing-related decisions
• Collaborate cross-functionally to support business requirements and sourcing alignment
• Educate internal clients on category strategies, policy compliance, and supplier options

Category Management-
•Develop category strategies for assigned spend areas (e.g., indirect, IT, professional services)
•Collaborate with internal stakeholders to align sourcing plans with business goals
• Analyze category trends and market dynamics to identify sourcing opportunities
• Track and report savings, compliance, and supplier performance metrics

Contracting & Compliance -
• Collaborate with Legal and Risk teams to ensure contract terms align with policy
•Support the implementation of sourcing governance and procurement policies
•Monitor compliance with competitive sourcing and ethical procurement practices

Supplier Relationship Management -
• Lead or participate in supplier business reviews and performance scorecards
• Segment suppliers by strategic value and manage relationships accordingly
• Identify and mitigate supplier-related risks
•Monitor market trends and supplier capabilities to drive innovation and value
• Explore innovation opportunities and continuous improvement with key vendors

Data & Reporting -
• Analyze spend data and trends to identify strategic sourcing opportunities
• Provide insights to support budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning
• Support the adoption and utilization of procurement tools and systems

Qualifications -
• Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain, Business, Finance, or related field
• 5+ years of strategic sourcing or procurement experience; category management preferred
• Experience leading sourcing events, supplier negotiations, and contract management
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and sourcing tools
• Working knowledge of ERP systems (e.g., Oracle, SAP) and procurement analytics tools
•Strong negotiation skills and ability to think strategically
• Prior experience in retail, wholesale, distribution and/ or consumer packaged goods is preferred.

Competencies -
• High drive and results orientation; able to deliver against cost and value targets
• Intellectually curious with a passion for process improvement and innovation
• Strong business acumen and ability to navigate cross-functional priorities
• Highly organized with strong project management and time management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to proactively manage the message & expectations (all levels).
• Operates with integrity, professionalism, and a customer-focused mindset
• Demonstrates sound judgment and is comfortable working in ambiguity. High standards of ethics, professionalism, and integrity
• High accountability and ownership of outcomes and relationships