Talon Hiring Solutions is partnering with a client in the greater Birmingham, AL area to identify a detail-oriented and analytical Sourcing Analyst to support procurement, supplier management, and cost optimization initiatives. Reporting to the Sourcing Supervisor, this individual will play a key role in evaluating suppliers, analyzing purchasing data, negotiating pricing, and identifying opportunities to improve sourcing strategies and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate is proactive, collaborative, and comfortable managing multiple priorities while delivering cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.
What You'll Do
- Analyze Data & Identify Savings: Collect and analyze purchasing data, supplier costs, market trends, and product margins to identify cost-saving opportunities and support informed sourcing decisions.
- Manage Supplier Relationships: Evaluate existing and potential suppliers based on cost, quality, reliability, and service. Build strong supplier relationships and negotiate pricing, contracts, and terms.
- Support Sourcing & Procurement: Lead or assist with sourcing initiatives, requests for proposals (RFPs), competitive bidding, contract negotiations, and purchasing activities to ensure timely delivery and compliance with specifications.
- Maintain Purchasing Records: Track supplier performance, product costs, deliveries, inventory, and purchasing activity while maintaining accurate records and reports.
- Improve Processes: Identify opportunities to streamline sourcing procedures, improve bidding processes, strengthen project management, and enhance overall procurement efficiency.
- Collaborate Across Teams: Partner with sales, operations, quality, and finance to align sourcing activities with business needs and project timelines.
- Coordinate Product & Supplier Onboarding: Support new supplier and product onboarding, including sample requests, product evaluations, and monitoring test results.
- Provide Purchasing Support: Assist the purchasing team as needed to maintain efficient procurement operations and meet business demands.
What You'll Bring
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field preferred.
- 1–3 years of experience in sourcing, procurement, purchasing, or supply chain management.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience working with ERP or purchasing systems.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize competing deadlines, and respond with urgency.
- A proactive, detail-oriented approach with a focus on cost savings, supplier performance, and continuous improvement.
- Experience in the food industry is a plus.