Strategic Sourcing Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s competitive business landscape, the role of a Strategic Sourcing Manager has become pivotal.

As globalization continues to shrink the world, the need for skilled professionals who can identify, evaluate and engage crucial business partners becomes increasingly essential.

So, what exactly is expected from a Strategic Sourcing Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker keen to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the mechanics of strategic sourcing,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable Strategic Sourcing Manager job description template, crafted for seamless integration on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right in.

Strategic Sourcing Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Strategic Sourcing Managers handle and supervise supply chain management functions such as procurement and sourcing of raw materials.

Their main goal is to ensure efficient management of the supply chain in order to minimize costs.

Strategic Sourcing Managers are primarily responsible for:

• Developing and implementing efficient sourcing and category management strategies
• Analyzing and calculating costs of procurement and suggest methods to decrease expenditure
• Identifying and exploring lucrative sourcing opportunities through industry research and networking
• Negotiating with suppliers and vendors to secure advantageous terms
• Reviewing existing contracts with suppliers and vendors to ensure on-going feasibility
• Building and maintaining long-term relationships with vendors and suppliers
• Assessing, managing, and mitigating risks in procurement processes
• Collaborating with stakeholders to ensure clarity of the specifications and expectations of the company
• Performing cost and scenario analysis, and benchmarking for the business
• Estimating risks and applying risk minimizing techniques
• Developing and managing the procurement team

 

Strategic Sourcing Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a strategic-minded Sourcing Manager to manage and oversee our company’s sourcing capabilities.

The Strategic Sourcing Manager will be responsible for handling the company’s end-to-end sourcing operations.

The successful candidate will be able to appraise and improve our sourcing activities by analyzing the company’s spending, supplying partnerships, and new possibilities.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage the company’s supply portfolio ensuring transparency of spending
• Generate and implement efficient sourcing and category management strategies
• Analyze and calculate costs of procurement and suggest methods to decrease expenditure
• Innovate sourcing strategies and optimize sourcing procedures to attain maximum efficiency
• Cooperate with stakeholders to guarantee agreement on terms and processes
• Research and anticipate shifts in the negotiating power of suppliers
• Perform cost and scenario analysis, and benchmarking
• Estimate risks and apply risk minimizing techniques
• Discover and partner with trustworthy vendors and suppliers
• Determine quantity and timing of deliveries

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a sourcing manager or procurement manager
• Familiarity with sourcing and vendor management and relevant software
• Understanding of market dynamics and sound business judgement
• Strong project management and leadership skills
• Ability to negotiate and sustain networking relationships
• Comfortable with figures and in collecting, analyzing and interpreting data
• Solid judgement with ability to make good decisions
• BSc degree in supply chain management, logistics or business administration

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Strategic Sourcing Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with some travel required for supplier visits and negotiations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief Procurement Officer or Supply Chain Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Strategic Sourcing Manager Do?

Strategic Sourcing Managers work in a wide range of industries where they are responsible for managing a company’s suppliers and improving the efficiency of procurement processes.

Their primary duties involve developing sourcing strategies based on cost efficiency and quality, and using these strategies to identify and evaluate potential suppliers.

They negotiate contracts with suppliers and manage relationships with them to ensure a steady supply of goods and services.

Strategic Sourcing Managers also analyze and assess supplier performances against contractual standards and make decisions regarding contract renewals.

They work closely with other departments within the organization, such as the finance and operations departments, to understand their supply needs and ensure these needs are met.

Moreover, they monitor market trends to identify potential new suppliers and products, and to anticipate shifts in the purchasing power of their existing suppliers.

In addition to this, they are responsible for the implementation of sourcing plans with the goal of ensuring high quality and timely procurement of supplies.

They often lead a team of procurement specialists or sourcing analysts, and thus, team management, leadership, and training are also integral parts of their job roles.

 

Strategic Sourcing Manager Qualifications and Skills

A Strategic Sourcing Manager should possess a range of qualifications and skills that enable them to effectively manage and coordinate all sourcing activities, these include:

• Strong analytical skills to analyze and interpret complex data, trends, and market conditions.
• Exceptional negotiation skills to effectively deal with vendors and suppliers, ensuring the best quality at the most cost-effective prices.
• Excellent communication skills to coordinate with different departments within the organization, as well as to maintain strong relationships with suppliers and stakeholders.
• Project management skills to plan, manage and execute sourcing strategies on time and within budget.
• Financial acumen to understand and evaluate costs and benefits, and to manage budgets effectively.
• Knowledge of sourcing and procurement techniques, as well as an aptitude in reading the market.
• Proficient in relevant software and tools used in sourcing and supply chain management.
• Leadership and team management skills to lead a team of sourcing professionals, facilitating their professional growth and ensuring high performance.

 

Strategic Sourcing Manager Experience Requirements

Candidates for a Strategic Sourcing Manager role generally need to have at least 5 to 7 years of experience in procurement or a closely related field.

This experience should include a proven track record of successful sourcing and contract negotiations.

Starting in entry-level roles such as Procurement Analyst or Sourcing Specialist can provide a solid foundation for the skills and knowledge required in strategic sourcing.

Mid-level candidates may have held roles like Senior Buyer or Procurement Manager, which require dealing with suppliers, analyzing spend data, and identifying cost reduction opportunities.

Those with over 10 years of experience and a history of management roles could be considered highly experienced candidates.

This level of experience typically includes leading procurement teams, developing sourcing strategies, and contributing to high-level business decisions.

In addition to work experience, many employers seek candidates with relevant certifications like Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP).

A Master’s degree in Business Administration or a related field can also be beneficial.

 

Strategic Sourcing Manager Education and Training Requirements

Strategic Sourcing Managers typically require a bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.

They are expected to have a solid understanding of procurement, sourcing strategies, and supplier management.

Knowledge in specific industries such as manufacturing, retail, or technology may also be beneficial depending on the company.

In addition to their degree, relevant work experience in strategic sourcing or procurement is often required.

This experience should demonstrate knowledge of contract negotiations, supply market analysis, and cost reduction strategies.

Some positions may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in Business Administration or Supply Chain Management.

This higher level of education can indicate advanced knowledge of strategic planning, financial analysis, and project management.

Certifications such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), or Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) can also be beneficial.

These certifications demonstrate a commitment to the profession and a mastery of important skills in the sourcing field.

Continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends, market changes, and technological advancements is also vital for Strategic Sourcing Managers.

 

Strategic Sourcing Manager Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Strategic Sourcing Manager is $101,613 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income may vary depending on factors such as industry, level of experience, educational background, and geographic location.

 

Strategic Sourcing Manager Job Description FAQs

What are the key responsibilities of a Strategic Sourcing Manager?

Strategic Sourcing Managers are responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies to support business objectives.

They manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, conduct market research, evaluate supplier performance, and work closely with other departments to ensure business needs are met.

 

What skills are required for a Strategic Sourcing Manager?

Strategic Sourcing Managers need strong negotiation skills, analytical thinking, and the ability to develop and implement strategic sourcing plans.

Good communication skills are also important as they regularly interact with suppliers, stakeholders, and other departments within the organization.

They should also have knowledge of procurement processes and software, financial analysis, and project management.

 

What educational background should a Strategic Sourcing Manager have?

Most companies require a bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field.

Some may prefer candidates with a master’s degree.

Relevant work experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, or supply chain management is also typically required.

 

What qualities make a good Strategic Sourcing Manager?

A good Strategic Sourcing Manager is detail-oriented, strategic, and results-driven.

They have a deep understanding of the market trends and the ability to build strong relationships with suppliers.

They should be able to work under pressure, make data-driven decisions, and lead and manage a team effectively.

 

What should you look for in a Strategic Sourcing Manager resume?

A Strategic Sourcing Manager’s resume should highlight their experience in strategic sourcing or procurement, their knowledge of sourcing strategies and contract negotiation, and their ability to manage supplier relationships.

Look for specific examples of how they have saved costs, improved efficiency, or managed risks in their previous roles.

Also, pay attention to their educational background and any industry-specific certifications they hold.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the depth and breadth of the role of a Strategic Sourcing Manager.

Surprised?

It’s not just about negotiating contracts and evaluating suppliers.

It’s about shaping the future of a company’s procurement strategy, one strategic decision at a time.

Our comprehensive Strategic Sourcing Manager job description template and real-world examples provide a solid foundation for your next career move.

But why not take it a step further?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s the perfect tool for crafting impeccable job listings or refining your resume to the highest standard.

Remember:

Every strategic decision contributes to a more robust procurement strategy.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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