Lead Procurement Strategist
CAI - Columbus, OH
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Lead Procurement Strategist Req number: R7177 Employment type: Full time Worksite flexibility: Remote About Us: CAI is a prominent global services firm, boasting over 9,000 associates and generating over $1.3 billion in annual revenue. For more than 40 years, we have excelled in integrating talent and technology to generate transformative solutions for our clients, colleagues, and communities. As a privately owned company, we focus on delivering exceptional results and pioneering efforts to enhance neurodiversity in the workplace. Position Overview: We are seeking a dynamic Lead Procurement Strategist who can elevate our procurement function to new heights. If you possess the skill to transform procurement from a tactical operation into a strategic business asset, we encourage you to apply! Key Responsibilities: Develop and execute forward-thinking procurement strategies that align with organizational goals, creating policies and governance frameworks that streamline operations. Enhance supplier relationship management (SRM) capabilities by establishing performance metrics and forging strategic partnerships. Design a centralized procurement framework to define clear roles, authority levels, and spending controls, moving away from decentralized purchasing. Manage supplier onboarding and master data operations, leading a professional team dedicated to data quality and compliance. Implement standards for supplier master data to ensure quality, classification, and strategic reporting. Optimize procurement technologies, especially Workday Procurement, to ensure user-friendly experiences and operational efficacy. Oversee strategic sourcing initiatives across various spend categories, emphasizing market analysis and competitive bidding. Build procurement analytics capabilities, generating reports that illuminate spending patterns and supplier performance to guide strategic decisions. Lead contract negotiations to secure beneficial agreements, ensuring compliance with regulations and alignment with organizational risk assessments. Champion organizational change management, fostering buy-in for new processes and establishing procurement as a trusted advisor to business teams. Qualifications: Required: A minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in procurement and supply chain management, including 3 years in leadership roles. Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, with experience presenting to executives. Track record of enhancing or transforming procurement organizations into strategic business functions. Extensive experience in supplier relationship management and developing partnerships beyond basic transactions. Proficient in procurement systems, particularly enterprise platforms like Workday, SAP Ariba, or Coupa. Strong expertise in supplier master data management and data quality frameworks. Analytical mindset with experience in procurement analytics and data visualization. Solid change management skills, with a demonstrated ability to influence across all levels of an organization. Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field. Preferred: Master's degree (MBA or MS in Supply Chain Management) and relevant professional certifications. Experience in professional services or consulting industries, with knowledge of service procurement and project management. Familiarity with Managed Service Provider (MSP) programs and contingent workforce strategies. Experience in public sector contracting, including compliance and supplier diversity. Proficiency with analytics tools such as Tableau or Power BI for advanced data visualization and analysis. Awareness of emerging trends in procurement, including automation and digital transformation. Compensation: The salary for this position ranges from $160,000 to $200,000 annually, with specific compensation dependent on various factors including location, experience, and education. Our benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401k retirement plan, and paid time off, which may include sick leave and other forms of leave as indicated by applicable law.
Created: 2026-03-05