Procurement Specialist (Buyer)

Unspecified

We are currently seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Procurement Specialist (Buyer) to join our team. This role is critical in ensuring the timely and cost-effective procurement of materials, components, equipment, and services while adhering to our high standards of quality, compliance, and operational excellence.

As a Procurement Specialist, you will be responsible for managing the full procurement lifecycle, from sourcing vendors to final payment and closure. You will work closely with internal teams, external suppliers, and other stakeholders to ensure the efficient and effective acquisition of materials and services in support of program and organizational goals. This role requires strong communication, negotiation, and organizational skills, as well as the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Responsibilities:

• Take ownership of end-to-end procurement process, from sourcing vendors to managing purchase orders and closure activities post-payment.
• Identify qualified vendors for products and services, ensuring compliance with International Traffic and Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Controlled Goods requirements.
• Secured Non-Disclosure or Proprietary Information Agreement (PIA) as necessary prior to release of drawings or controlled documents.
• Prepare and issue Requests for Quotations (RFQ), validate quotation compliance, and perform price and delivery comparisons to select the optimal source in line with company policies.
• Create and manage purchase orders, ensuring compliance with contractual and quality terms and conditions, while being mindful of domestic and international cultures.
• Proactively monitor and manage purchase orders to ensure timely delivery, addressing any potential delays, service issues or financial impacts.
• Maintain accurate electronic records, generate weekly reports to track progress, and issue Key Performance Indicator (KPI) reports for program and budget holders.
• Provide input for the development and improvement of procurement strategies, department procedures and supply chain processes.
• Reconcile purchase and invoice discrepancies, ensuring compliance with subcontract/contract, purchasing policies, goals and objectives.
• Actively participate in department and operational meetings, coordinate and communicate vendor issues and support reporting activities to demonstrate compliance.
• Drive and maintain strong data discipline in the SCM ERP environment.
• Create and maintain positive and ethical customer and vendor relationships.
• Follow workplace operating, environmental health and safety procedures and guidelines.

Requirements:

• Minimum of 3 years of purchasing experience in a business environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration or related field (or equivalent in training and experience).
• Enrolled in or willing to enroll in professional supply chain certifications such as SCMA, APICS, or CSCP.
• Strong understanding of the Supply Chain lifecycle and roles/responsibilities at different project stages.
• Understanding of the preparation, negotiation, and monitoring of purchasing agreements as well as terms and conditions
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) is essential.
• Knowledge of business contract law, customs, freight and tax issues.
• Understanding of purchasing concepts, negotiation tactics/techniques, and material management principles.
• Demonstrated ability to source hard-to-find materials using multiple supply sources.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve discrepancies effectively.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and organizational skills with high attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently, adapt to changing priorities and manage a high volume of work efficiently.
• Familiarity with military trade regulations and their impact on vendors, internal and external processes.
• Knowledge of Quality Management systems and LEAN/6Sigma methodologies is highly desirable.
• Experience with Microsoft Dynamics ERP or similar systems is an asset.
• Bilingual in French and English is an asset.