Job Information
Grant Thornton LLP GTIL Strategic Sourcing Manager in Iselin, New Jersey
Overall role purpose
In our network strategy, our vision is to our vision is to become ‘the most valued network in the profession. The goal of the procurement function is to ensure necessary products and services are procured at the best cost, optimal quality and with efficient delivery.
The Strategic Sourcing Manager plays a crucial role in the IT Procurement team which supports GTIL and Member Firms on IT, other departments, and at times other global contracts.
Reporting directly to the Head of IT Procurement, this role provides operational expertise in completing the cycle from working with internal stakeholders in developing demand to fulfillment and thereafter supporting on matters upon request from the vendor management of procurement operations teams. This role is expected to work within the operating framework and bring their subject matter expertise in continuous improvement. Setting the strategy for spend management is part of this role.
About the role
Overall role purpose
In our Go Beyond network strategy 2025 our vision is to become ‘the most valued network in the profession’.
Implements Strategic Sourcing, procurement strategies, from initial identification of procurement needs through delivery and setting the stage for continuous monitoring of supply for indirect goods and services. Leads contract negotiations, implements short-term and long-term strategies that align with GTIL’s goals for reducing costs and financial goals in serving the Grant Thornton network.
The role will primarily support the GTIL IT Procurement organization and when assigned, other GTIL contracts, and member firms on global IT contracts. Reporting to the Head of IT Procurement, you will ensure systems and processes are updated to accelerate value proposition for the organization. The role will participate with Procurement Operations and Vendor Management activities to ensure vendor’s offering is aligned to the contractual terms and remains current to meet business needs.
Responsible for negotiating, coordinating, and assuring assigned indirect spend categories and services are purchased at the lowest possible cost at the desired quality. Lead the discussion in collaboration with the business stakeholders, vendor management, procurement operations and the supplier to develop SLAs and KPIs for 360-degree supply management. Leads strategic sourcing activities, engaging stakeholders to define requirements, source supply options, engage in process-based sourcing in identifying the optimal supplier.
Responsible for engaging stakeholders to ensure contract is written to align to business requirements with a measure of governance and compliance to continue monitoring delivery. Consults with management and other subject matter experienced professionals to develop alternative solutions. Advises on options, risks, total cost of ownership, and business impacts.
Main responsibilities
Responsible for identifying, developing, and executing sourcing strategies for the most cost-effective pricing and optimal service level (quality) for service-related categories.
The role will also be responsible for building relationships with key executive stakeholders, managing escalations independently, understanding business pipeline and forecast, and providing a strategic plan for streamlining vendors while becoming a Subject Matter Expert for the appointed categories.
Lead the design and implementation of strategic sourcing activities (RFPs, RFIs, Market Scans, Category Management) for appointed category; Lead the sourcing activities, firming requirements with stakeholders (currents needs and RFI to determine the unknown), RFP, contract negotiation, contract writing, SLA & KPI definition, handover to business stakeholders, procurement operations and vendor management. Articulate total cost of ownership in a summary report supporting request for contract execution.
Lead the supplier relationship management during the sourcing process, then transition the relationship for day-to-day operations.
Participate with development and implementation of business plans, performance goals and metrics for each vendor.
Drive tracking and reporting for assigned spend areas; develops and tracks supplier key performance indicators. Performs data analysis and modeling.
Support the supplier risk performance program and ensures Strategic Sourcing remains compliant to internal audits.
Participate in weekly category review meetings with cross-functional teams to manage category performance.
Participate in category performance by adhering to internal Savings goals and preparing financial models to support the category effectively. Supports the balancing of spend portfolio for reoccurring managed spend through coordinated sourcing activities.
Cultivates team morale, motivation, and loyalty through continuous training and mentorship, proving clear communication and constructive feedback.
Provide time zone, language and local office coverage for all supplier and business issues.
Other responsibilities as assigned.
Person specification
Knowledge of the procurement lifecycle, Strategic Sourcing, Procurement and Vendor Management best practices.
Subject matter expertise in Strategic sourcing.
Well experienced in supplier negotiations and developing/executing sourcing strategies.
Experience collaborating with internal and external resources to develop strategies that meet department goals within budget and established timelines.
Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills, attention to detail, with interest in managing procurement demand across multi geographies across time-zones.
Lead and drive to desired customer outcomes
Problem solver who can drive change.
Have a customer service mindset, serve but question for clarity.
Proficiency in Microsoft suite (Outlook, SharePoint, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)
Experience – Essential
Expert knowledge of strategic sourcing principles
Extensive experience in project management and contract negotiation.
Extensive experience developing presentations and presenting to management and other internal groups.
Effective team leadership: strategic thinker who is energized by change and impact.
Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills with interest in managing multi geographies across time-zones.
Analytical skills and business acumen to determine how to best leverage deal points.
Technologically savvy and experienced in writing and revising operating processes.
Self-starter and able to direct self without much management intervention.
Conflict resolution skills.
Consistent thought leadership
Self-sufficient on all projects, with minimal to no leadership direction
Proven track record in having a customer service mindset, serve but question for clarity.
Strong relationship skills and cultural awareness, the ability to work well with people from different disciplines and cultures.
Ability to be agile, respond positively to change and contribute with an innovative and global mindset.
Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Business or related industry or at least 4 years’ experience in Strategic Sourcing with some experience in Vendor Management and Procurement.
Experience - Desirable
Global experience within the professional services industry in Strategic Sourcing would be an added benefit.
About Us
At Grant Thornton, we believe in making business more personal and building trust into every result – for our clients and you. Here, we go beyond your expectations of a career in professional services by offering a career path with more: more opportunity, more flexibility, and more support. It’s what makes us different, and we think being different makes us better.
About the Team
The team you’re about to join is ready to help you thrive. Here’s how:
• Whether it’s your work location, weekly schedule or unlimited flex time off, we empower you with the options to work in the way that best serves your clients and your life.
• Here, you are supported to prioritize your overall well-being through work-life integration options that work best for you and those in your household.
• We understand that your needs, responsibilities and experiences are different — and we think that’s a good thing. That’s why we support you with personalized and comprehensive benefits that recognize and empower all the identities, roles and aspirations that make you, well, you. See how at www.gt.com/careers
• When it comes to inclusion, we are committed to doing more than checking boxes. Explore all the ways we’re taking action for diversity, equity & inclusion at www.gt.com/careers
Here’s what you can expect next:
If you apply and are selected to interview, a Grant Thornton team member will reach out to you to schedule a time to connect. We encourage you to also check out other roles that may be a good fit for you or get to know us a little bit better at www.gt.com/careers.
Benefits:
We understand that your needs, responsibilities and experiences are different, and we think that’s a good thing. That’s why we support you with personalized and comprehensive benefits that recognize and empower all the identities, roles and aspirations that make you, well, you. For an overview of our benefit offerings, please visit: https://www.grantthornton.com/careers/rewards-and-benefits
Benefits for internship positions: Grant Thornton interns are eligible to participate in the firm’s medical, dental and vision insurance programs and the firm’s employee assistance program. Interns also receive a minimum of 72 hours of paid sick leave, and are paid for firm holidays that fall within their internship period.
Benefits for seasonal employee positions: Grant Thornton seasonal employees are eligible to participate in the firm’s medical, dental and vision insurance programs and the firm’s employee assistance program. Seasonal employees may also be eligible to participate in the firm’s 401(k) savings plan and employee retirement plan in accordance with applicable plan terms and eligibility requirements. Seasonal employees receive a minimum of 72 hours of paid sick leave.
Grant Thornton employees may be eligible for a discretionary, annual bonus based on individual and firm performance, subject to the terms, conditions and eligibility criteria of the applicable bonus plan or program. Interns and seasonal employees are not eligible for bonus compensation.
Additional Details:
It is the policy of Grant Thornton to promote equal employment opportunities. All personnel decisions (including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, working conditions, promotion, transfer, compensation, benefits, evaluations, and termination) are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital or civil union status, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship status, veteran status, disability, handicap, genetic predisposition or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state and local laws, it is the policy of Grant Thornton to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of employment, including the application process. To make an accommodation request, please contact HR@us.gt.com.
For Los Angeles Applicants only: We will consider for employment all qualified Applicants, including those with Criminal Histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.