Description

The Zildjian Company has been synonymous with setting the standard for the development and manufacture of high performance musical instruments since 1623. As the world’s leading maker of cymbals, drumsticks and percussion mallets, Zildjian products are sold across the globe, under the Zildjian, Vic Firth and Balter Mallet brands, and are the standard to which all other cymbals, drumsticks and mallets are measured. From the beginner to the world’s greatest rock stars, jazz performers and concert percussionists, amateurs and pros alike chose Zildjian, Vic Firth, and Balter Mallets products to allow them to experience and share the joy of music. 

The Role: Strategic Sourcing Manager - Innovation

The Strategic Sourcing Manager - Innovation reports to the Director of Supply Chain and will, in partnership with Zildjian Leadership and the Brand Management Team, lead the identification, selection, negotiation, and management of vendors and vendor partnerships in support of all innovation initiatives. This is both a strategic and tactical role in that the manager will be responsible for both the overall sourcing strategy as well as the day to day management of purchasing and relationships.

Roles & Responsibilities

· Partner with Brand Managers, executive leaders and cross-functional teammates to understand business needs and develop technical product requirements, scope and criteria for sourcing projects and vendors.

· Conduct product/industry research and maintain in depth knowledge of relevant commodities markets, relevant product components and materials, and finished goods items 

· Build vast network of potential vendor partners. Lead vendor identification/profiling to develop supplier short list and selection recommendation. 

· Develop RFIs to qualify vendors and collaborate with Brand Managers to create, issue and manage RFPs. Own the RFP process and manage proposal evaluation and collaborate with Brand Management on final vendor selection.

· Articulate technical specifications for all sourced products inclusive of materials requirements. 

· Negotiate all terms and conditions of supply. Draft and implement supply agreements. Facilitate implementation of agreements and onboarding of new suppliers.

· Use vendor management best practices throughout negotiation, contracting, onboarding, renewal, and ongoing relationship management. Conduct regular vendor performance evaluations and supplier risk assessments.

· Ensure keen understanding of product requirements and timelines. Act as the lead between Zildjian and vendor partners relative to product specifications, prototype development, development feedback, and final delivery expectations. Hold vendor accountable for delivery against specifications, timing, and budget. 

· Actively monitor costs. Collect and interpret procurement data including cost analysis reporting, benchmarking spend, RFP data and return on investment. Provide recommendations for optimization.

Requirements

 Bachelor’s Degree with 5 years of experience in sourcing or buying

• C.P.M. (Certified Purchasing Manager) or C.I.P.S. (Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply) designation is a plus
• High level negotiation skills, with proven performance results
• Global sourcing experience for a global consumer products company
• Highly proficient PC skill sets (Microsoft Office, heavy Excel)
• Highly organized, results-oriented and attentive to details
• Work self-directed and be self-motivated, proactive, independent, problem solving and responsive. Embody a can-do attitude and ‘how we can’ thinking.

· Highly collaborative; ability to lead, influence and inspire cross-functional partners and non-direct reports at all levels within the organization· Excellent project management skills and ability to multi-task and track a wide variety of activities under deadline, paying close attention to detail, comfortable with high profile projects· Naturally curious; consumer-first mindset · Outstanding communication skills, including formal presentations, written, and verbal communication· Ability to travel as needed· Passion for the music industry.

Zildjian is an equal opportunity employer and individuals seeking employment with us are considered without regards to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, martial status, physical and mental disability, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.