Sourcing Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY The Sourcing Specialist leads the strategic sourcing, supplier qualification, negotiation and purchasing of maintenance, manufacturing, operational, sanitation, packaging and facility supplies required to support Gwillimdale Farms' agricultural, vegetable packing and production operations. The role evaluates domestic and international sourcing opportunities, manages supplier relationships and procurement costs, and coordinates product sourcing with external partners, including in Mexico. The position is accountable for sourcing continuity, competitive commercial terms, supplier performance, responsible inventory planning and procurement analysis. The Specialist partners with maintenance and operations to understand technical requirements and develops familiarity with equipment manuals, diagrams, schematics and industrial components through training and collaboration with technical staff. Routine storekeeping, stock transactions and receiving data entry are outside the role's primary responsibilities. KEY FUNCTIONAL AREAS & RESPONSIBILITIES Parts Sourcing & Strategic Procurement: Plan and execute sourcing strategies for equipment components, materials, tools, packaging, sanitation and facility supplies in support of plant and agricultural operations. Key Responsibilities: Source and procure replacement parts for processing, grading, washing, packing, conveying and manufacturing equipment. Purchase mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic and other equipment components in collaboration with maintenance personnel. Procure nuts, bolts, fasteners, bearings, belts, motors, fittings, lubricants and general industrial hardware. Source power tools, hand tools, equipment accessories and maintenance consumables. Purchase janitorial, housekeeping, sanitation, product packaging, palletizing and general facility supplies. Solicit, evaluate and compare supplier bids and written quotations against cost, specifications, quality, lead time, reliability and commercial terms; negotiate pricing, delivery schedules, payment conditions and purchase terms within delegated authority. Prepare supplier bid comparisons, spend analyses, purchasing forecasts and cost-savings recommendations for management. Qualify, evaluate, onboard and periodically review domestic and international vendors using documented commercial, quality, service and compliance criteria. Identify suitable alternative parts or suppliers when required components are unavailable, subject to technical approval. Prepare, authorize within delegated limits, and monitor purchase orders, supplier agreements, delivery commitments and outstanding sourcing requirements. Coordinate with maintenance and production management to prioritize urgent equipment and operational requirements. Maintain sourcing documentation, supplier contracts, negotiated terms and pricing history to support commercial decisions and auditability. Identify purchasing opportunities that improve cost efficiency without compromising equipment reliability, quality or safety. Inventory Strategy & Stock Optimization: Develop inventory policies and procurement parameters with maintenance and operations; day-to-day stockroom custody and routine inventory entry remain with designated operational personnel. Key Responsibilities: Analyze stock availability, usage and demand patterns and recommend timely replenishment of critical materials. Evaluate, establish and maintain minimum and maximum inventory levels and reorder points in consultation with maintenance and operations. Identify critical spare parts that should remain readily available to minimize equipment downtime. Coordinate with technical personnel to interpret manufacturer references and equipment part lists for sourcing decisions. Research supplier specifications and compatible products with maintenance approval for technical suitability. Research compatible or equivalent replacement parts where original components are discontinued or unavailable. Revi…

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