How to Become a Senior Sourcing Specialist

A senior sourcing specialist is responsible for planning and purchasing material, organized by specific commodities, and supporting new product launches. They also manage commodities assigned to them for quality, delivery, and cost to meet the department and company's goals and objectives. They also develop partnerships with key suppliers that support the overall operational excellence goals.

Senior sourcing specialists build relationships with suppliers to facilitate the sourcing process and negotiate deals and contracts with suppliers to ensure budgetary compliance. Moreover, they also draft contracts that will be reviewed by both the company and suppliers. Lastly, they must understand the company's commodities and have an in-depth knowledge of the industry they are working in. Essential skills include having sourcing experience, a deep understanding of the commodity, and computer skills. As this is a senior post, a master's degree in an industry-related field is required along with at least five years of experience, although more is preferred.

The average hourly salary for the position is $36.37, which amounts to $75,654 annually. The senior post comes with a lot of responsibilities to fulfil, but provides necessary compensation as well.