Supplier Identification & Research:
Proactively research and identify potential suppliers from various online sources, industry directories, and trade websites.
Leverage personal and professional networks to discover new vendors.
Stay updated on market trends and competitor products.
Supplier Evaluation & Selection:
Evaluate suppliers based on quality, reliability, cost efficiency, and adherence to regulatory standards.
Conduct due diligence, including reviewing company credentials and product samples.
Develop scoring matrices or supplier evaluation frameworks to ensure objective selection.
Vendor Engagement & Relationship Management:
Initiate contact with potential suppliers and schedule meetings, both online and offline.
Visit vendor sites to inspect production facilities, assess capabilities, and build mutual trust.
Negotiate terms, including pricing, lead times, and payment arrangements.
Maintain long-term relationships with key suppliers to secure better terms, resolve issues, and explore future collaborations.
Process Optimization & Reporting:
Develop and maintain a robust supplier database and track performance over time.
Work with internal teams (e.g., product development, quality assurance, procurement) to align sourcing strategies with company goals.
Provide regular reports on supplier performance, market conditions, and opportunities for improvement.
Continuously refine sourcing strategies to adapt to evolving market conditions and business needs.
Proactive and Strategic Approach:
Demonstrate initiative by identifying and addressing potential risks in the supply chain.
Act as a liaison between the company and suppliers to ensure transparent communication and effective problem-solving.
Represent the company professionally during negotiations and vendor visits.
Experience & Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
Proven experience in procurement, sourcing, or supply chain roles; experience in offline vendor engagement is highly preferred.
Experience with supplier evaluation and relationship management tools.
Soft Skills & Personal Attributes:
Proactivity: Ability to take initiative in finding and engaging with new suppliers before requirements become urgent.
Sincerity & Trust Building: Excellent interpersonal skills with a focus on building long-term, trust-based relationships.
Strong Communication: Capable of clearly articulating requirements, negotiating terms, and managing stakeholder expectations.
Analytical Thinking: Strong research skills and the ability to make data-driven decisions.
Adaptability: Comfortable with a dynamic work environment and able to work independently or as part of a team.