Global Strategic Sourcing Specialist

Homewerks Worldwide, LLC, a leading import distributor of home improvement products for major retailers is seeking a Global Strategic Sourcing Specialist to join our Sourcing Department. Homewerks Worldwide develops, sources, and markets bathroom, kitchen, and plumbing products for home and commercial use. Since its formation in 2006, Homewerks has shown consistent sales growth fueled by a proven track record of bringing innovative, efficient, and high quality product solutions to homes. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, as well as the opportunity to contribute to a fast growing organization. Our office/warehouse is located in Lake Bluff, IL.Position SummaryThe Global Strategic Sourcing Specialist will be responsible for assisting in the sourcing activities for new and existing product lines, as well as providing technical support to the Customer Service, Supply Chain, Sales and Marketing teams. The self-motivated individual will be knowledgeable about the product structure, operation, and quality of rough plumbing items (valves, fittings, supply lines) and fashion plumbing items (faucets, shower heads, LED mirrors, bathroom ventilation fans). This position will report to the Director of Sourcing.Responsibilities•Develop and summarize Requests for Quotes (RFQ’s) to meet required timelines while ensuring quality of the process and outcome.•Proactively identify opportunities regarding pricing, lead time, and quality.•Must be able to understand raw materials and currency variances in relation to cost of goods.•Effectively communicate pertinent information to both internal departments and external suppliers to ensure consistent messaging and alignment.•Closely work with internal Quality Engineers and Product Development personnel based in China for the development of Technical Data Sheets, First Article Inspections, and assist in sourcing activities.•Develop Supplier Fact Sheets (SFS) for all new & potential vendors to better understand areas for new sourcing activities.•Assist Marketing & Sales Departments to ensure artwork & packaging are approved for production to avoid costly re-work.•Coordinate transport of samples to and from vendors, including tracking and distributing to appropriate personnel.Qualifications and Required Skills•Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management/Purchasing/Supply Chain or 5+ years relevant work experience.•Excellent written, verbal, and communication skills with the ability to effectively interface &negotiate with internal & external contacts.•Experience with consumer goods (preferably plumbing, HVAC, and electrical) in a retail setting.•General knowledge of overseas sourcing (preferably China & South-East Asia), including experience in methods of transportation.•Ability to read drawings and schematics.•Ability to organize priorities to meet regular and repeated deadlines.•Analytical and technical skills required to understand business practices and recommend continuous improvement opportunities.•Ability to work in an office environment with regular scheduled hours.•Ability to communicate outside of business hours with overseas vendors to keep a project or task on track, as well as answer urgent questions.•Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, and Power Point).•Experience with ERP software with Epicor preferred.Preferred SkillsMechanical aptitude Excel skills (VLOOKUP, SUMPRODUCT and Pivot Tables).Knowledge of patent and trademark documents a plus.Experience with Wrike project management software a plus.Ability to set up and operate product testing equipment.BenefitsMedical, dental and vision insurance401k Safe Harbor Plan with 3% Company contributionGenerous PTO plans10 paid company holidays per a calendar yearAnnual paid volunteer day for non-profit or charity of your choiceCompany provided life insurance, short-term disability and long-term disability coverage.Off-site events to encourage team buildingCompany performance based bonus planPhysical DemandsThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. These include to sit for extended periods of time, regularly stand and walk and have the manual dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard and mouse.Homewerks Worldwide, LLC is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.Salary Range: $55K - $80K