Important Information
Posted range is $81,120-$133,380
The base salary range represents a good faith salary range for this position. This position is eligible for annual incentive pay and has the opportunity for continued salary growth. If you are hired at American Water your base salary compensation will be determined based on factors such as market, geography, skills, education and/or experience. At American Water, we are committed to pay equity.
This position may be eligible for annual incentive pay and you will have the opportunity for continued salary growth. In addition to compensation, you will be offered a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k), Defined Contribution Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage, plus disability, paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs and much more! American Water is also proud to offer employees learning opportunities and work experiences to grow professionally!
In addition to compensation, you will be offered a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k),Defined Contribution Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage, plus disability, paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs and much more!
American Water is also proud to offer employees learning opportunities and work experiences to grow professionally!
Primary Role
The Principal Procurement Specialist is a front-line employee with deep subject-matter expertise who excels in all Supply Chain competencies and is considered an expert in their area of responsibility. This role involves providing strategic direction and leadership for their category, acting as the primary liaison between senior business unit leadership and the Supply Chain team. This role is also responsible for producing financial and operational results aligned with supply chain, departmental, and company goals, and ensuring efficient procurement processes. Personally lead complex negotiations and high-profile projects to maximize value. This individual will be a resource and visible mentor to colleagues in Supply Chain, presenting and educating others on key topics.
Key Accountabilities
- Category Leadership–engaging with supply chain and business unit stakeholders and their leadership to provide category market intelligence. Overseeing the procurement process, from sourcing through contract negotiation, contract execution, and purchase order creation, ensuring compliance with company policies and in support of company goals. Responsible for defining value metrics/targets for their areas of responsibility and communicating results. Defining and executing short- and long-term priorities and strategies for staffing, training, safety, performance, and company risk mitigation. Partner with key stakeholders to develop forecasts and regulatory strategies around categories of responsibility.
- Lead and manage the company’s energy procurement strategy, including renewable energy.
- This role will be responsible for overseeing all energy procurement decisions, ensuring optimal cost-efficiency and alignment with the company’s sustainability objectives
- Analyze market trends and utility rates to make informed purchasing decisions that align with budgetary and sustainability goals
- Managing supplier relationships – Meet with and build effective partnerships with suppliers to maintain continuity of supply and ensure we are obtaining value through effective collaboration and risk sharing. Conduct ongoing discussions on performance and risk and strive to position American Water as a customer of choice. Intervene when disputes arise or suppliers do not comply with the company’s Supplier Code of Ethics, contractual, and Health and Safety requirements.
- Collaborate with finance and operations teams to forecast energy needs and develop procurement plans
- Supply Chain excellence – Oversee the development and execution of procurement category strategies in collaboration with various business stakeholders that leverage company spend to deliver value to the enterprise.
- Mentorship – Mentor, coach, and develop junior team members to support improved performance. Direct and assist more junior personnel in the identification of category or sourcing opportunities and define and prioritize category or sourcing strategies.
Knowledge/Skills
- Strong process, project, and program management skills.
- Demonstrated skills and ability to lead, develop, and execute category strategies that exceed Company goals and objectives.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills; e.g., listening, presentation, report writing, etc.
- Interpersonal skills; e.g., tact, diplomacy, persuasion, cooperation, ability to influence and motivate functional and cross-functional peers and decisions, etc.
- Strong quantitative and analytical skills.
- Internal consulting skills; e.g., technical, analytical, problem-solving, etc.
- Leadership presence (e.g., ability to deal effectively and maintain collaborative relationships with Company senior management and other key stakeholders).
- Ability to create and present key information regarding their categories of responsibility to various levels of stakeholders.
- Knowledge of category supplier environment, sourcing and category strategy creation, and technical knowledge of the category.
- Knowledge of construction contracting and negotiations, direct procurement processes.
- Knowledge of the regulated utility business along with applicable financial areas.
- Knowledge of supplier diversity strategies.
- Knowledge of managing a department's operating budget.
Experience/Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Finance, Engineering, or related discipline. A combination of education and experience will also be considered.
- Professional Certifications or advanced education in the category of expertise preferred.
- Minimum of ten (10) years of work experience; Minimum of six (6) years experience in procurement, category management or equivalent.
- Utility Supply Chain experience preferred.
- Demonstrated effectiveness around people leadership, project delivery and change management.
Certifications/Licenses
- Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is strongly preferred.
- Active state drivers license required with the ability to pass a motor vehicle report.
Work Environment
- Primarily office with occasional local/overnight work in the field.
Travel Requirements
- Periodic travel with overnight stays required.
- Around 10% of total time is anticipated away from the office.