| Location | Birmingham, Alabama |
Experience Level: Senior (10–15 Years)
Function: Procurement / Supply Chain / Purchasing
Industry: Utilities / Energy / Power Generation / Corporate Services
Client- Southern Company
Contract- 1 Year
Location- Birmingham, AL
The Buyer III is responsible for leading and executing procurement activities that support enterprise category management strategies and business partner requirements. This role oversees end-to-end procurement operations, including strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, supplier management, and purchase order execution, ensuring the cost-effective, timely, and compliant acquisition of goods and services.
The ideal candidate brings deep experience in utility or industrial procurement, strong negotiation skills, ERP expertise, and the ability to collaborate across finance, engineering, legal, and supply chain teams.
Develop and execute procurement strategies aligned with organizational goals, budgets, and operational needs
Lead strategic sourcing initiatives, including market research, supplier evaluation, and competitive bidding
Locate and qualify sources of supply for materials and services
Issue requests for quotes (RFQs) and conduct bidder meetings
Analyze bids, pricing, and material reorder parameters
Create and manage purchase orders for services and materials
Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions with suppliers
Draft and manage purchase contracts for material and service acquisitions
Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers
Monitor supplier performance and resolve issues related to pricing, invoicing, specifications, or delivery
Collaborate with suppliers to improve cost, quality, and service levels
Ensure strict adherence to procurement procedures, documentation requirements, and audit controls
Maintain compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, including Uniform Commercial Code (UCC)
Manage supplier contracts, renewals, modifications, and compliance with terms
Collaborate with internal stakeholders to manage inventory levels and prevent stockouts
Support logistics, expediting, and material delivery activities
Coordinate with traffic/logistics, engineering, finance, risk management, and legal teams
Conduct cost analysis to identify cost-reduction opportunities
Optimize procurement processes while maintaining or improving quality
Provide procurement and cost-saving reports to management
Mentor and support procurement staff as needed
Promote sustainability and responsible sourcing practices
Identify and implement process improvements and best practices
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Finance, Law, or a related field
10–15 years of experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain roles
Strong knowledge of purchasing and supply chain practices and standards
Experience with inventory management, contracts, and procurement operations
Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills
Ability to manage multiple transactions under time constraints
Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy
Professional certifications such as:
Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)
Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)
Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM)
Experience in utility, power generation, power delivery, gas, or corporate procurement
Strong knowledge of IBM Maximo ERP or similar enterprise systems
General knowledge of finance and accounting practices
Proficiency in ERP systems and procurement tools
Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and databases
Experience analyzing procurement data and generating reports
Corporate or hybrid office environment
Frequent interaction with suppliers and cross-functional stakeholders
Fast-paced, deadline-driven procurement operations