Description

A Sourcing Associate is responsible for assisting with the sourcing and procurement process for a company. They work closely with the sourcing team to identify potential suppliers, evaluate their products or services, and negotiate contracts. The Sourcing Associate also helps to analyze market trends, assess supplier performance, and make recommendations for supplier selection and improvement. They must have a strong understanding of the company's sourcing needs and be able to identify suitable suppliers based on factors such as quality, cost, and reliability. The Sourcing Associate works with cross-functional teams, such as engineering, production, and quality assurance, to ensure that the sourcing process aligns with the company's goals and objectives. They also help manage supplier relationships, ensuring that suppliers meet quality and delivery requirements. The Sourcing Associate must have excellent communication and negotiation skills, as they will be interacting with suppliers and internal stakeholders on a regular basis. They should also have strong analytical skills, as they will be responsible for comparing supplier offers, analyzing market data, and making informed sourcing decisions. Overall, the Sourcing Associate plays a crucial role in ensuring that the company has a reliable and cost-effective supply chain.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Sourcing Associate with 0-3 years of experience in Canada, your main responsibilities include:

  • Collaborating with procurement teams to identify and evaluate potential suppliers, ensuring compliance with company standards and requirements. You will work closely with the procurement team to identify and assess potential suppliers, ensuring that they meet the company's standards and requirements.
  • Conducting market research to identify new sourcing opportunities and staying updated with industry trends. You will be responsible for conducting market research to identify new sourcing opportunities and staying informed about the latest trends in the industry.
  • Assisting in the negotiation and management of contracts with suppliers, ensuring favorable terms and conditions. You will support in negotiating and managing contracts with suppliers, ensuring that the terms and conditions are favorable for the company.
  • Maintaining accurate records and documentation related to sourcing activities, including supplier contracts and performance metrics.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Sourcing Associate, the following qualifications are required:

  • Strong research and analysis skills to effectively identify and assess potential suppliers, ensuring they meet quality standards and price competitiveness.
  • Excellent negotiation skills to secure favorable terms and agreements with suppliers, optimizing cost savings and delivery timelines.
  • Proficient in contract management, with the ability to review and draft agreements, ensuring compliance with legal and company policies.
  • Strong communication and relationship-building abilities to collaborate with internal stakeholders and suppliers, resolving any issues and fostering positive partnerships.

Essential Skills For Sourcing Associate

1

Supply Chain & Logistics Analytics

2

Cost Analysis

3

Attention to Detail

4

Market Research

5

Data Analysis

Career Prospects

The role of a Sourcing Associate is crucial for efficient procurement and supplier management. For professionals with 0-3 years of experience in Canada, several alternative roles are worth considering. Here are four options to explore:

  • Procurement Coordinator: A role that supports procurement activities, including vendor sourcing, contract administration, and purchase order processing.
  • Supply Chain Analyst: A position focused on analyzing and optimizing supply chain processes, inventory management, and forecasting demand.
  • Category Specialist: A role that specializes in specific product categories, responsible for strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, and cost optimization.
  • Vendor Manager: A position dedicated to managing relationships with vendors, assessing their performance, and ensuring timely delivery of goods and services.

How to Learn

The role of Sourcing Associate in Canada is expected to witness significant growth in the market. According to a 10-year analysis, the job role has shown steady growth and is projected to continue expanding in the foreseeable future. With an increasing emphasis on sourcing and procurement strategies, there will be a substantial number of employment opportunities available for Sourcing Associates in the coming years. Google's recent data points confirm the rising demand for professionals in this field, making it a promising career choice in Canada.