Summary:

This position resides in Brighton, Massachusetts, and is part of XL’s Operations Team. 

The primary objective is sourcing & purchasing materials and services to support new and existing products.  The Procurement Specialist will be responsible for identification, evaluation, and selection of key suppliers.  He/she will work closely with cross-functional partners in Operations, Quality, Engineering, Finance, and Service to ensure that XL’s total needs are clearly defined.  The ideal candidate will have strong sourcing experience, including execution of strategic sourcing processes and a solid track record of supplier selection, negotiations, and cost reductions.  Familiarity with a variety of materials related to electrical and mechanical commodities and manufacturing processes is required.  Experience in automotive and/or other regulated industry experience is an advantage.   

Responsibilities:

• Implement Supply Agreements and Purchase Orders for strategic materials/relationships  
• Cultivate and manage supply relationships at all stages of engagement and life cycle         
• Create and deliver demand forecasts
• Develop and implement sourcing strategies to align with company needs and direction, including supply base rationalization and spend management      
• Lead sourcing projects to support product development and supply base enhancements related to cost, quality, delivery, and capacity
• Lead RFX implementation, including coordination of requirements, development of quotation packages, and pre-qualification of prospective sources
• Manage research and analysis of sources, maintaining a thorough understanding of innovations, new products, price trends, and market conditions impacting XL suppliers, products, and services    
• Lead and facilitate strategic discussions and escalations related to performance and relationships
• Monitor supplier performance, deliver scorecards, and drive improvements
• Implement risk assessments and mitigation plans
• Implement Vendor Managed Inventory arrangements

Requirements (Skills, Abilities, Knowledge, & Expertise):

• Bachelor’s degree with 7 years in Procurement or Supply Chain   
• Expertise in sourcing and supplier management principles and best practices
• Understanding of manufacturing and quality principles and best practices
• Excellent negotiation skills and experience leading supplier cost negotiations     
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Ability to perform detailed financial cost analyses and forecasting
• Excellent verbal & written communication skills, including presenting & facilitating team meetings
• Team player with high levels of professionalism, integrity, and enthusiasm 
• Willingness to travel domestically and/or internationally approximately 20% of time