Hire a Sourcing Specialist
Sourcing specialists are relationship builders who scour the industry for the best vendors for their company. Before actively searching for qualified candidates, it is helpful for recruiters to conduct an intake with the hiring company. Gaining clarity on particular points will provide a clearer picture of what the business is looking for. Is the company looking for a candidate from a specific work background? How many years of work experience is required? What is the work schedule? Are there training and advancement opportunities available for sourcing specialists? This information is useful in creating a job description.
Creating a job description helps hiring managers inform job seekers about what the company is offering. Details about the job specifics, requirements, and responsibilities aid candidates in figuring out if they are the right fit for the role. Having a clear job description will attract a good pool of candidates. Don’t be afraid to be creative. To make job seekers remember your job announcement, think of ways to stand out from the rest for the job listings. Posting the job announcement on relevant social media platforms, online groups, and hiring websites will boost your job vacancy visibility and garner more interest. If allowed, hiring managers can ask for referrals from employees. This is a reliable way of obtaining candidate leads. Who knows? Employees may already know a fantastic candidate for sourcing specialist.
Responsibilities of a Sourcing Specialist
Sourcing specialists keep abreast of market trends, vendors, contractors, and suppliers in their niche or industry. By doing so, they can provide their companies with the best suppliers from which they can obtain quality materials and services for business. Sourcing Specialists develop and foster good working relationships with suppliers to benefit their company.
If the company needs a specific resource or material, sourcing specialists shortlist the best suppliers and obtain quotes based on their procurement needs. They take charge of negotiating prices, delivery schedule, quantity, and other factors on behalf of the company. The goal of sourcing specialists is to land the best deal, at the best price, without scrimping on product quality. Once the supplier is selected, sourcing specialists collaborate with the company’s legal department to have a contract in place. Finally, sourcing specialists study and research on the prospective suppliers relevant to the company’s needs.
Skills and Qualifications of a Sourcing Specialist
For interested candidates who would like to apply as a sourcing specialist, a bachelor’s degree in logistics, business administration, supply chain management, or a similar field is required. Work experience in a similar role is typically preferred. In-depth knowledge of various sourcing strategies and proficiency in using computer systems is a definite advantage.
Sourcing specialists speak with different vendors, contractors, and team members. As such, candidates must be able to listen well and speak confidently. Excellent interpersonal and communication and negotiation skills are part of the job. Additionally, candidates need to manage their time well and organize tasks efficiently. Preparing and presenting reports meticulously with good attention to detail is likewise a must.
